Through various resources, MONET supports the NSF's efforts to broaden participation in the STEM workforce beyond Research-Intensive (R1) Institutions. Our partnership with Morehouse College, a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and a MONET participating institution, is one example of how we're exploring models for research and student training at Predominantly Undergraduate Institutions (PUIs) and other colleges.
Collaborating with MONET: Advancing Polymer Science through Inclusive Partnerships
MONET, an NSF Center for Chemical Innovation, is committed to forming strong, mutually beneficial partnerships with a diverse range of academic institutions, including Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), community colleges, and universities across various regions. Our goal is to expand access to cutting-edge polymer science research, foster collaborative discovery, and strengthen the national research ecosystem.
What We Offer
Collaborative Research: Work with MONET faculty and trainees on innovative projects in polymer science, leveraging our distributed expertise and resources.
Access to Facilities: Partner institutions can access MONET’s specialized equipment, research infrastructure, and technical support.
Professional Development: Faculty and students benefit from exchanges, workshops, and seminars designed to build research capacity and scientific leadership.
Mentorship and Training: MONET’s programs offer tailored mentorship and training opportunities for students and early-career researchers, supporting their academic and professional growth.
Pathways to STEM Careers: Our collaborative programs are designed to help students explore advanced degrees and diverse career opportunities in chemistry and related fields.
MONET–Morehouse College Partnership
Our ongoing collaboration with Morehouse College exemplifies MONET’s approach to partnership:
Joint Curriculum Development: Co-developing educational content and research experiences that integrate polymer science into undergraduate education.
Research Exchange: Supporting summer research opportunities for Morehouse students in MONET labs, fostering hands-on learning and scientific discovery.
Seminar Series: Hosting virtual seminars that connect participants from HBCUs, MSIs, and other institutions, promoting interdisciplinary dialogue and knowledge sharing.
Recent Outcomes
Morehouse students have participated in summer research at MONET institutions, contributing to ongoing projects and gaining valuable laboratory experience.
Our joint seminar series has engaged over 150 participants from various institutions, thereby expanding access to advanced topics in polymer science.
MONET and partner faculty continue to identify new opportunities for collaboration, curriculum enhancement, and student support.
Opportunities for New Partnerships
MONET is actively seeking new institutional partners to co-create impactful research, education, and outreach initiatives in the field of polymer science. We welcome interest from:
Minority-Serving Institutions (as defined by the U.S. Department of Education)
Community colleges and regional universities
Institutions with a demonstrated interest in polymer science or related fields
How to Collaborate with MONET
Review MONET’s research areas on our website to identify potential synergies.
Contact Dr. Vanessa Rosa, Director of Broader Impacts, at vrr10@duke.edu with a brief overview of your institution’s research interests, possible areas of collaboration, and your vision for partnership.
Dr. Rosa will schedule a meeting to discuss how MONET can support your institution’s goals and explore next steps.
Our Commitment
MONET is dedicated to broadening participation in STEM by fostering institutional and geographic inclusion, supporting capacity-building, and creating accessible pathways for all students and educators to engage in cutting-edge research and professional development.
We are always open to new partnerships that advance these goals. To propose a collaboration, please contact us.