Grant: Collaborative Research and Training Experience

We are facing a global energy crisis led by our reliance on fossil fuels and our inefficient consumption. Materials are a key component to averting this crisis. By controlling the properties of materials down to the nanometer scale, we can improve performance in energy applications and reduce overall cost. This CREATE graduate training program in Materials for Enhanced Energy Technologies (MEET) will produce highly qualified personnel with skills to develop future generation energy technologies.MEET will teach the intimate connections between fuel cells, solar cells, biofuels, and temperature control systems to provide trainees with a broad view of energy technologies, while giving expertise in the foundational material properties that drive innovation. Two unique team-taught courses created by MEET will make connections both at the scientific level (e.g., nanoscale charge transport in fuel cells and solar cells), and at the technological level (e.g., photovoltaics for hydrogen production, efficient cooling in fuel cells). Professional training, in the classroom, at selected seminars, and in internships, will prepare trainees for their future careers. Industrial partners will play an active role in the training, through internships, as well as in the research and the course delivery.This CREATE program comes with strong support from academia and industry. Energy and Materials have long been priority areas for NSERC, and for the participating universities, all of which are providing significant cash and in-kind commitments to this program with a long-term commitment to the program's sustainability. Industrial internship placements have been secured for the trainees, and the industrial partners have offered significant cash and in-kind commitments to support the program.