# NLI: Design and Development: Developing interest and pathways for engineering engagement in the localized contexts of urban spaces across the US Northeast

> **NSF 1300PYXXDB H-1B FUND, EDU, NSF** · Boston College (MA) · $328,116

## Abstract

Preparing communities and the future engineering workforce to address societal challenges requires educational experiences that highlight the complex, interconnected nature of environmental and social systems–core elements of the Engineering for One Planet (EOP) framework. Adding in McGowan and Bell's place-based framework, this Design & Development Research project will link learning outcomes from the EOP framework to a multi-city environmental research program through  (i) a hyper-local rainfall sensor network, developed by undergraduate students and installed by middle school students in participating schools and clubs, (ii) an associated curriculum for middle school students, and (iii) a research collaborative involving data collection by middle school students, aimed at developing student interest in and pathways to engineering, while emphasizing urban resilience and flood preparedness in their communities. By addressing spatial and temporal gaps in rainfall data needed for flood forecasting, real-time response to weather emergencies, and resilient urban development, the sensor network program aims to motivate students to engage with and develop an interest in engineering by recognizing how collaborative engineering solutions support human well-being, starting with their local communities. The multi-city network will connect middle school and undergraduate students across three cities in two states, fostering collaboration and emphasizing the importance of interdiscipli

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2535969
- **Awardee organization:** Boston College (MA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** MJ3JH8CRJBZ7
- **PI:** Catherine Hoar
- **Primary program:** 1300PYXXDB H-1B FUND, EDU, NSF
- **All programs:** Microelectronics and Semiconductors, EDUCATION RESEARCH, ENGINEERING EDUCATION
- **Estimated total:** $328,116
- **Funds obligated:** $328,116
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2026 → 06/30/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2535969

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2535969, NLI: Design and Development: Developing interest and pathways for engineering engagement in the localized contexts of urban spaces across the US Northeast. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2535969. Licensed CC0.

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