INSTITUTES OF ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
The Institutes of Energy and the Environment (IEE) works to build teams of researchers from different disciplines to see how new partnerships and new ways of thinking can solve some of the world s most difficult energy and environmental challenges. We understand that our world needs abundant, clean, safe, and affordable energy. Our planet also needs innovative solutions to sustain a healthy, protected environment. Together, we can find solutions to local and global challenges.
Funding IEE supports Penn State faculty doing innovative research on interdisciplinary energy and environmental topics. We assist researchers in identifying funding opportunities and help them become successful in obtaining it. Our seed grant program, which is open to faculty across the Penn State system, provides funding for interdisciplinary projects focused on energy and environmental topics. Additionally, IEE helps grow interdisciplinary research by supporting centers, events, and initiatives across the University.
Outreach and Training IEE hosts workshops and symposia on special topics to help researchers connect across disciplines and initiate new projects. We also assist faculty who would like to be successful at attaining larger grants and managing teams of interdisciplinary researchers. Through meetings and mentorship, we help junior faculty understand the challenges and rewards of interdisciplinary research. We also support mid-career faculty who would like to build a larger portfolio of successful grants. And we offer science communication training to more effectively share research results with journalists, policymakers, and the public.
Next Generation We are also investing in the next generation of interdisciplinary scholars, from high school students to undergraduate and graduate students. For example, we support EnvironMentors, a program that links high school students with faculty. The Environmental Inquiry minor provides opportunities to integrate environmental theory and practice across a range of undergraduate majors. Undergraduates play a key role in many of our seed grants and research initiatives. These students create a legacy of positive impact.
Facilities & Instrumentation IEE provides state-of-the-art instrumentation and facilities in the form of the Energy and Environmental Sustainability Laboratories (EESL) that are available for use by Penn State researchers and industry. We have a broad array of analytical techniques covering material in all phases, including a radiocarbon laboratory, a water quality laboratory, quantitative imaging capabilities, and much more. Both technical support and training are available for those interested in using the facilities. For more information about EESL, visit eesl.iee.psu.edu.
Collaboration & Networking IEE encourages collaboration and networking among researchers in different fields through a variety of avenues. We host workshops, seminars, and regular events. Some of our signature events include: Energy Days: A two-day conference focused on networking energy professionals from industry, government, and academia Colloquium on the Environment: A speaker series that brings environmental leaders to Penn State to discuss current issues
Mentorship We facilitate the creation of mentor relationships between senior Penn State faculty and newer faculty members. These relationships can provide support to newer faculty members as they create proposals, develop interdisciplinary teams of researchers, and more.
Collaborate with Us Discover and implement solutions to the world s most pressing energy and environmental challenges. Penn State faculty can become an IEE Affiliate by visiting iee.psu.edu/affiliate Faculty, students, and staff can stay up to date by signing up for our mailing list at iee.psu.edu/newsletter Industry, government, foundations, and other potential partners can contact IEE leadership to explore opportunities.
IEE Contact Information iee.psu.edu iee@psu.edu 814-863-0291 Land and Water Research Building University Park, PA 16802 Tom Richard Director tlr20@psu.edu Lara Fowler Assistant Director for Outreach and Engagement lbf10@psu.edu
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