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Stewart Speaks to WSJ on Serial Entrepreneurs
Wednesday, August 22, 2007Wayne Stewart, professor of management, recently spoke with the Wall Street Journal about his study of common traits among serial entrepreneurs. Stewart defines serial entrepreneurs as individuals who had owned and operated three or more businesses. According to a study by Stewart and his colleagues, these individuals showed a higher inclination for innovation, risk-taking and achievement. They also displayed less fear of failure and were more capable of rebounding from failed ventures. Read the WSJ article: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB118712720309797680-email.html Listen to the WSJ Podcast: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB118712720309797680-email.html
Clemson Scientists Shed Light on Molecules in Living Cells
Wednesday, August 22, 2007Clemson University chemists have developed a method to dramatically improve the longevity of fluorescent nanoparticles that may someday help researchers track the motion of a single molecule as it travels through a living cell. The chemists are exploiting a process called 'resonance energy transfer,' which occurs when fluorescent dye molecules are added to the nanoparticles. Their findings were reported at the 234th annual national American Chemical Society meeting in Boston.
The key to developing single-molecule tracking technology may be the development of better fluorescent nanoparticles. Fluorescent nanoparticles are thousands of times smaller than the width of a human hair and are similar in size to protein molecules, to which they can be attached. When illuminated by a laser beam inside a light microscope equipped with a sensitive digital camera, the nanoparticle attached to a protein will light up, allowing scientists to get a precise fix on the position of the protein and monitor its motion inside a cell.
Until now, nanoparticles have been too dim to detect inside cells, but Clemson chemists have developed a novel type of nanoparticles containing materials called conjugated polymers that light up and stay lit long enough for scientists to string together thousands of images, as in a movie.
Conjugated polymers share many properties with semiconductors like silicon but have the flexibility of plastic. While initial efforts at preparing nanoparticles out of conjugated polymers resulted in particles that were very bright, their brightness quickly faded under the bright glare of a laser beam.
'When a conjugated polymer is in a high energy state, it is vulnerable to attack by oxygen,' says principal investigator and chemist Jason McNeill. 'The dye efficiently removes the energy from the molecule and re-emits the energy as light, which greatly improves the brightness and longevity of the nanoparticles.'
McNeill says other possible targets of investigation include the formation of plaques and fibrils in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease and mad cow disease. Graduate students Changfeng Wu, Craig Szymanski, Jennifer Grimland and Yueli Zheng contributed to the study, which the National Science Foundation funded.
Clemson University chemists presented 40 papers on a wide range of subjects at the society meeting. Other topics include detection and quantification of uranium in groundwater, conversion of lipid feedstocks such as poultry fat to biodiesel and a new mechanism for antioxidants that fight DNA damage.
The Clemson University department of chemistry (http://chemistry.clemson.edu) offers undergraduate and graduate programs. With a tenure/tenure-track faculty of 24, research activities include projects in the traditional sub-disciplines of analytical, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry as well as in a broad range of interdisciplinary and nontraditional areas: polymer and materials chemistry, solid-state chemistry, bioanalytical chemistry, bio-organic and medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry, chemical physics, chemical education and other areas. For more information go to www.clemson.edu.
Holcombes boost gifts to $6 million for electrical and computer engineering
Wednesday, August 22, 2007Milton W. and Betty Holcombe have added $1 million to their support for electrical and computer engineering at Clemson University. That boosts to $6 million their total giving for the Milton W. Holcombe Electrical and Computer Engineering Department (ECE) (www.ece.clemson.edu), the only named department in the College of Engineering and Science. This latest gift establishes the Milton W. and Betty M. Holcombe Fund for Excellence to provide for programs such as undergraduate research for seniors and improved graduate education, visiting lecturers nad faculty and student enrichment.
An airborne communications systems pioneer, Milt Holcombe is originally from Central and now lives in Dallas with his wife, Betty, who grew up in Clemson. His career included development of the airborne command post systems for the Air Force to keep the president in touch with key officials during an international crisis.
He co-founded Electrospace Systems Inc., a multimillion-dollar telecommunications and navigation systems firm, later sold to the Chrysler Corp. Because of the Holcombes’ investment over the last 20 years, Clemson has gained national prominence in the field of electronic communications, and electrical and computer engineering students have gained opportunities that will help them shape the future of communications.
'The generosity of the Holcombes will help us take the department of electrical and computer engineering to an even higher level,' said newly appointed ECE department chairman Darren Dawson. 'We plan to establish several new programs to ensure that we maintain our best and brightest students and faculty.'
'This is truly an endorsement of the electrical and computer engineering department,' said engineering and science Dean Esin Gulari. 'This is the fuel that will get the word out about the high-quality research and propel the department’s excellent reputation even further.'
In addition to longtime support of Clemson through annual giving and volunteer service, the Holcombes created the Milton W. and Betty Holcombe Chair in Electrical and Computer Engineering in 1987 with a $1 million cash gift. Their support attracted to Clemson Michael Pursley, a world-class communications research scientist, who holds the chair.
Clemson Student Rings Opening Bell on NYSE
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
On August 21 Clemson economics alumni Kurt Rotthoff rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, signaling the start of trading. Rotthoff earned his Ph.D. in Applied Economics in May of this year, writing his dissertation under the supervision of Economics Professor Michael Maloney. This month he begins an appointment as Assistant Professor of Finance at Seton Hall University. While at Clemson, Rotthoff worked as a graduate instructor for the John E. Walker Department of Economics, and as a volunteer coach for the Clemson swim team. Earlier this summer, he served on the teaching staff of the American Institute on Political and Economic Systems, at Charles University in Prague. The bell-ringing ceremony stems from Rotthoff’s participation in the NYSE Euronext Teachers Workshop Program, a five day program which provides educators with an enriched understanding of capital markets and institutions, in order to strengthen the teaching of courses on financial markets. For more information about Clemson's graduate program in economics, visit http://www.grad.clemson.edu/programs/Econ/
Clemson Chemists Find New Ways Antioxidants Fight Disease
Monday, August 20, 2007A team of Clemson University chemists has found a new mechanism for antioxidant activity: the antioxidants bind to naturally present iron and copper in the body to prevent formation of reactive oxygen compounds that damage DNA. The scientists presented the results of their research at the 234th annual American Chemical Society national meeting in Boston Aug. 19-24.
Cancer, cardiovascular diseases, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s often are linked to DNA damage that occurs when metal ions in the body such as iron and copper produce reactive oxygen compounds that damage human cells. Studies have shown antioxidants that neutralize this activity and that occur naturally in fruits, vegetables, green tea, garlic and onions can be effective at preventing DNA damage.
“Our studies have shown that antioxidants even at low concentrations found in these foods bind to iron and copper and prevent DNA damage,” said lead investigator and chemist Julia Brumaghim. “This goes a long way in understanding how antioxidant supplements might help treat or even prevent these debilitating illnesses.”
The group is now testing its findings in bacterial cells and will test human cells next. Clemson graduate students on the project include Erin E. Battin, Nathan R. Perron and Ria R. Ramoutar. Research is funded through a grant from the American Heart Association.
Clemson University chemists are presenting 40 papers at the society meeting on a wide range of subjects. Other topics include detection and quantification of uranium in groundwater, conversion of lipid feedstocks such as poultry fat to biodiesel and fluorescent nanoparticles that may someday help scientists track a single molecule.
For more information about Clemson's graduate programs in chemistry, visit http://www.grad.clemson.edu/programs/Chemistry/
Getty Foundation Grant Will Develop Clemson Heritage Preservation Plan
Monday, August 20, 2007
Clemson University was awarded a $160,000 Campus Heritage grant from the Getty Foundation to develop a heritage preservation plan for the campus. The grant will support a project to maintain Clemson's historic architectural, landscape and spatial assets, and to educate and train the people of Clemson University in the best ways to protect and maintain them. Goals of the project include developing a comprehensive inventory of campus historic resources, The Class of '39 Bell Monument is in the Carillon Garden.producing a National Register eligibility assessment, and creating a campus stewardship strategy that involves the campus and community. John Milner Associates of Charlottesville, Va., has been hired to develop the preservation master plan. 'One of the primary goals of this project is to provide a variety of education options to students interested in historic preservation and related fields such as architecture, landscape architecture, history, geography, archaeology and engineering,' says Cari Goetcheus, an assistant professor of landscape architecture at Clemson. Goetcheus shares project supervisor duties with Dan Nadenicek, chairman of Clemson’s department of landscape architecture. 'Students will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on research, field work, research projects and independent studies allowing them to learn about preservation planning, techniques, approaches and interpretation,' Goetcheus said. Since 2002, through its Campus Heritage Initiative, the Getty Foundation has awarded grants to 86 colleges and universities for preservation planning, as well as funding surveys of hundreds of small liberal arts colleges. These grants have played a catalytic role in helping institutions of higher education understand the significance of the historic resources on their campuses and plan for their long-term preservation. The current round of grants represents the final year of the initiative. 'American colleges and universities are frequently unique repositories of some of the country’s finest historic architecture and designed landscapes,' says Deborah Marrow, director of the Getty Foundation. 'While other buildings may have had a variety of owners and uses over the years, campus buildings have for the most part remained under the same stewardship, which presents wonderful opportunities for preservation and education.' For more information about Clemson's graduate program in landscape architecture, visit http://www.grad.clemson.edu/programs/LandArch/. For more information about the graduate program in historic preservation, visit http://www.grad.clemson.edu/programs/HistPres/. For more information about the graduate program in architecture, visit http://www.grad.clemson.edu/programs/Arch/.
Professional Development Opportunity for Earth Systems Science Students
Monday, August 20, 2007The NSF- and NASA-funded initiative, Minorities Striving and Pursuing Higher Degrees of Success in Earth System Science Professional Development program (MS PHD'S PDP) is selecting its fifth cohort. This MS PHD’S PDP provides professional development experiences to facilitate the advancement of underrepresented undergraduate and graduate minority students committed to achieving outstanding Earth system science careers. To date, 78 students, enrolled in various academic institutions across the US, have participated in MS PHD’S activities. Shortly, the process of selecting 25 additional students to become members of the 2007-2008 MS PHD'S PDP participant cohort will begin. The successful MS PHD'S PDP applicants will engage in a series of science exposure, professional development and virtual community building activities that include participation in two professional society meetings, web-based discussions and workshops and a capstone event hosted by renowned professional organizations in the field. Participants also receive fellowship funds to complement their professional development. Phase I: December 8-14, 2007 (Location: San Francisco, CA) Phase II: Spring-Fall, 2008 (Location: Specific to each organization) During phase II, students attend discipline-specific professional meetings and conferences aligned with their interests. These meetings are hosted by MS PHD’S PDP organizational partners: AGU, American Meteorological Society, American Society of Limnology and Oceanography, National Association of Black Geologist and Geophysicists, Joint Oceanographic Institutions, Integrated Ocean Drilling Program, Ocean Carbon and Biogeochemistry program, the Oceanography Society and the On the Cutting Edge Professional Development for Geoscience Faculty program. Phase III: Spring, 2009 (Location: Washington, DC area) This final, capstone event includes visits to several federal agencies including NSF, NASA, EPA and NOAA and is hosted by the National Academies. MS PHD’S participants extend actual (face-to-face) Phase I, II and III experience through virtual interaction. The MS PHD’S PDP uses a list-serve, an online community forum and webcam discourse to sustain mentorship and a sense of community.
This professional development program will take part in three phases:
This portion will occur in conjunction with the 2007 Fall American Geophysical Union meeting. Professional organizations represented will be the AGU, California Academy of Science and Aquarium of the Bay.
If you would like to apply for the MS PHD’S PDP 2007-2008 cohort, mentor and student participant applications are available at www.msphds.usf.edu. All qualified and interested individuals should submit their completed forms by September 10, 2007.
Clemson Ranked 27th in Nation by US News
Monday, August 20, 2007Clemson University continues its climb among the nation's best public, doctoral-granting institutions by placing 27th in the annual ranking by U.S.News & World Report. This is the university's highest ranking to date. Last year, Clemson was ranked 30th among the 164 institutions in the category. 'I'm very excited about the number 27, but I'm more encouraged by what's behind that number. We're seeing improvement in areas that directly impact faculty and students - smaller classes, lower student-to-faculty ratios and continued strong retention and graduation rates,' Barker said. 'We've always said that if we do the right things, if we make good decisions, if we're strategic about resource allocation and if we constantly focus on academic quality, the rankings would take care of themselves. Today, I'm happy to report that our plan is working.' U.S.News & World Report rankings are based on statistical measures, such as student SAT scores, graduation rates and faculty salaries, as well as a subjective measure of academic reputation. The list of public doctoral-granting institutions ranks universities across the country that offer a wide range of undergraduate majors as well as master and doctoral degrees. The rankings appear in the magazine's Aug. 27 issue and are available online at http://www.usnews.com/colleges.
University President James F. Barker said the goal to become a top 20 institution has never been about impressing magazine readers.
American Chemical Society Recognizes Clemson Professor
Monday, August 20, 2007The American Chemical Society (ACS) will present Clemson University associate professor of chemistry Dev Arya the Horace S. Isbell Award for outstanding contributions to the field of carbohydrate chemistry at its 234th annual meeting in Boston Aug. 19-24. The award recognizes carbohydrate scientists under the age of 41 who have demonstrated excellence in the field and who show promise of making high-quality contributions to carbohydrate chemistry and biochemistry. Arya’s research involves the chemistry and biochemistry of amino sugars and new pathways for molecular recognition of nucleic acids. His work opens up genetic targets for the development of new antibiotics that will be greatly needed in this century. Arya joined Clemson in 1999. He earned a Ph.D. from Northeastern University, Boston, and completed a post-doctorate degree at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Clemson University chemists are presenting 40 papers at the ACS meeting. Topics include detection and quantification of uranium in groundwater, conversion of lipid feedstocks such as poultry fat to bio-diesel and fluorescent nanoparticles that may someday help scientists track molecules. The Clemson University department of chemistry offers undergraduate and graduate programs. With a tenure/tenure-track faculty of 24, research activities include projects in the traditional sub-disciplines of analytical, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry as well as in a broad range of interdisciplinary and nontraditional areas: polymer and materials chemistry, solid-state chemistry, bioanalytical chemistry, bio-organic and medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry, chemical physics, chemical education and other areas. For more information go to http://www.grad.clemson.edu/programs/Chemistry/.
Clemson Gains Direct Access to National LambdaRail, Internet2 and Other Research Networks
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Clemson University has closed the cyber gap in South Carolina by joining the national high-speed research community through direct fiber connections between Clemson, Greenville, Atlanta and Charlotte, providing direct access to the National LambdaRail, Internet2 and other national and international research networks. The network, known as C-Light, was developed using private donations and gifted fiber with no burden to the taxpayers of South Carolina. This cooperative effort now provides Clemson researchers and faculty with leading-edge capabilities using direct fiber connectivity to high-capacity networks and resources that will enable research, academic and economic advancements and opportunities that were previously out of reach for Clemson and the Upstate. C-Light specifically provides faculty with the infrastructure they need to collaborate with colleagues and access resources nationally and internationally and ensures the capability to apply for major research grants from funding agencies like the National Science Foundation. 'Clemson’s capacity for data transmission has increased from the equivalent of a footpath in the forest to a 16-lane superhighway,' said Jim Bottum, chief information officer at Clemson. 'In the past, Clemson was limited to 'commodity' connectivity which prohibited us from participating in national initiatives like the TeraGrid and the National LambdaRail. In essence, we lacked the 'toll' to get onto the national research superhighway; so, for Clemson to advance toward its goals, C-Light had to happen.' The fiber network that now connects Clemson, Greenville and Charlotte to the Atlanta regional hub also includes Clemson’s new campus in Greenville, the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research or CU-ICAR. James Leylek, director of the Clemson University Center for Computational Mobility Systems, said that in the past he was forced to ship data from CU-ICAR to research partners by regular 'snail mail' because of network limitations. 'The world of high-performance computing offers unlimited opportunities for researchers needing to get data and information quickly,' said Leylek. 'C-Light is a tremendous boost to productivity.' Because C-Light is a strategic alliance between Clemson University and Charter Business, the benefits of high-speed connectivity are not limited to the university. Industry and businesses that need this kind of connectivity will be attracted to Upstate South Carolina because through research collaborations with Clemson they will be able to gain access to the network, bringing significant economic growth potential to the Upstate. C-Light also will provide an important building block for the South Carolina Light Rail, for which the state legislature recently appropriated one-time funding to acquire fiber to connect the three South Carolina research universities. Clemson also is building a Network Operations Center (NOC) as part of an $8 million campus network upgrade that could be utilized as a foundational piece of the South Carolina Light Rail. One of the most innovative features of C-Light is the fact that Clemson connected to the national infrastructure without burdening the state budget. The fiber and equipment were donated and the entire venture is a cooperative effort between Clemson and Charter Business.
Chemistry Student Awarded Research Incentive
Wednesday, August 08, 2007Dahlia Haynes, a fifth-year doctoral student in chemistry, was recently selected for the first-annual Department of Chemistry Graduate Student Research Incentive award which includes a citation and a $1,000 award to use to further her research. This research incentive award aims to recognize the 'most successful and productive student researchers in the chemistry department.' Under the direction of her advisor, Dr. Dennis Smith, Dahliah is researching the development of novel renewable resource materials for commodity applications. She said, 'A lot of my work has coincided with the Center for Advanced Engineering Fibers and Films’s (CAEFF) strategic plan. My project area allows me to fabricate a variety of fiber and film renewable based materials that complement the CAEFF’s goal. I also have worked, hands-on, with a variety of CAEFF's outreach programs in addition to serving as a past student leadership council president for the center.' Her latest project focal points will allow for much more integration with the Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies (COMSET) as well. Dahliah has found a lot of growing potential between what she is focusing on now and COMSET's plan; this will likely result in her working more closely on related COMSET projects. For more information about Clemson University’s graduate programs in chemistry, please visit http://chemistry.clemson.edu/graduate/index.htm
Wen Awarded $1.6 Million for Spinal Cord Research
Monday, August 06, 2007Assistant Professor Xuejun Wen will use a $1.6-million grant to pursue an innovative way to ease the disability and pain experienced by 200,000 Americans. Each year, 11,000 Americans suffer spinal cord injuries or other central nervous system (CNS) disabilities that can be permanent and paralyzing. Current treatments fall short of sparking a robust regenerative process that leads to a decent degree of functional recovery. Wen wants to change that situation. He will use his five-year grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) for research in tissue engineering aimed at spinal cord regeneration. “We’ve observed the promise of tissue regenerating itself,” said Wen. “This has potential for use in repairing acute and chronic damage, such as in spinal cord injuries or in diseases such as Parkinson’s.” Wen proposes to awaken the ability of spinal cord nerve bundles to regenerate through a controlled environment created by an implantable bridging device. By mimicking the spinal cord, using biomaterials and scaffolds along with therapeutic agents loaded in nanostructured biomaterials, scar formation at the lesion site will be inhibited and nerve bundle growth will be promoted. Wen is a faculty member in the Clemson bioengineering department and works in Charleston in the Clemson University-Medical University of South Carolina (CU-MUSC) bioengineering program. Previously, he has looked at ways to manipulate the microenvironment of the brain to improve the long-term life of transplanted healthy, human dopamine-producing neurons to treat Parkinson’s disease. His past research has led to international recognition and funding from such organizations as the Michael J. Fox Foundation. For information about the graduate bioengineering program, visit morehttp://www.ces.clemson.edu/bio/
Curry Foundation Grant Allows CU Physics Students to Study Deep Space
Monday, August 06, 2007Clemson University astrophysics students will continue their first-hand look into deep space with a Curry Foundation grant for $100,000 that allows for extended time on the Kitt Peak National Observatory’s four-meter Mayall telescope in Arizona. The amount is the second installment that provides for approximately one-third the $290,000 cost for 33 nights on the telescope during the second year of a three-year agreement made through the National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO), which is funded through the National Science Foundation (NSF). It also allows Clemson to trade its Mayall four-meter time for access to other telescopes in the U.S. system around the world. “Charles Curry and his generosity have opened many Clemson student and faculty eyes to the mysteries of deep space,” said associate professor Jeremy King, who along with other faculty have taken students on regular trips to Kitt Peak. “These collections of telescopes are among the best in the world and offer a chance in a lifetime observing opportunity for our aspiring Clemson student astronomers. It also gives them an edge in a competitive job market.” A group of Clemson students and faculty travel to Kitt Peak July 18-25 to study the formation of stars and the chemical evolution of the very early universe, among other things. They’ve also used their time to study gamma-ray bursts, supernovae and planet formation in deep space, where distances are measured in light years. Through the Seneca-based Curry Foundation, more than $300,000 has been donated to the astrophysics program at Clemson since 2001. In addition, Charles Curry has endowed three fellowships for outstanding graduate student researchers in astrophysics over the past three years. The Clemson University physics and astronomy department is an undergraduate, graduate and post-doctorate program with 26 faculty members. For more information about the graduate program in physics and astronomy, see http://physicsnt.clemson.edu.
Clemson, Dale Earnhardt Inc. Form Innovation Partnership
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Dale Earnhardt Inc. (DEI) Tuesday became Clemson University’s first Motorsports Innovation Partner, providing the company preferred access to faculty, students, facilities and equipment related to motorsports and automotive research. DEI Chief Executive Officer Teresa Earnhardt and Clemson University President James F. Barker signed a memorandum of understanding to create the formal research and higher education partnership. Initially, the unique partnership will be driven by proprietary motorsports engineering research projects involving Clemson University faculty, researchers and graduate students, along with the funding of student scholarships and internship opportunities. The Dale Earnhardt Foundation will fund an annual undergraduate scholarship honoring the memory of Dale Earnhardt Sr. for students interested in motorsports and automotive engineering. Clemson officials have selected William Howard Bostic III of Sissonville, West Virginia, as the first recipient of the Dale Earnhardt Motorsports Scholarship. Bostic is a rising senior majoring in mechanical engineering. (See related story.) The Dale Earnhardt Foundation will provide $13,000 annually for a total minimum pledge of $39,000 to establish a three-year undergraduate scholarship for a student in the College of Engineering and Science. In addition, students selected to receive the scholarship will be eligible for internships with DEI. Teresa Earnhardt said the relationship with Clemson is in keeping with the missions of both DEI and the Dale Earnhardt Foundation to foster education and to assure that the company and the motorsports industry will benefit from highly motivated, technically competent leaders and employees in the future. 'The work to create the relationship that formally begins today started more than a year and a half ago,' said Earnhardt. 'That investment in time and effort has produced a partnership with unlimited potential. 'In Clemson’s International Center for Automotive Research, we have the resources of a world-class institution with the capability and commitment to help us develop technical innovations that will continue the winning tradition of Dale Earnhardt Inc.' She said, 'I have no doubt that the work of Clemson University and Dale Earnhardt Inc. will produce remarkable results and years from now will be considered the model for how a racing organization and a research university can collaborate for the sake of progress. 'The partnership also provides a great match for the mission of The Dale Earnhardt Foundation. The Dale Earnhardt Motorsports Scholarship will support the education of deserving students and it will be these motivated, talented individuals who will continue the legend.' Clemson is recognized as a leader in motorsports and automotive engineering education. Its undergraduate program in mechanical engineering offers students real-world experiences through a competitive curriculum augmented by a cooperative education and internship program. Students also can compete in two automotive design projects: SAE Mini-Baja and Formula SAE through the Society of Automotive Engineers. The Carroll A. Campbell Jr. Graduate Engineering Center at the CU-ICAR campus in Greenville, S.C., offers the nation’s only master’s and doctoral graduate degree programs in automotive engineering and unique research and testing resources. Barker emphasized the value to the university and its students in partnering with one of the motorsports industry’s leading organizations. 'This partnership with DEI supports the avcademic focus of Clemson University to be a leader in automotive and motorsports education,' he said. 'This is also a great opportunity for Clemson to learn from a key leader in the motorsports industry. It is critical that we foster relationships with the companies that will employ the engineers of the future. Our students and faculty will gain immeasurable benefits from association with this world-class motorsports organization. 'We welcome Dale Earnhardt Inc. to the Clemson family and expect this to be just the beginning of a long and mutually beneficial relationship,' Barker added.
Department of Defense Awards Clemson $1.6 Million for Biochip Research
Monday, July 30, 2007The Department of Defense has awarded $1.6 million to the Center for Bioelectronics, Biosensors and Biochips (C3B) at Clemson University for the development of an implantable biochip that could relay vital health information if a soldier is wounded in battle or a civilian is hurt in an accident. The biochip, about the size of a grain of rice, Implantable biochip, about the size of a grain of rice.could measure and relay such information as lactate and glucose levels in the event of a major hemorrhage, whether on the battlefield, at home or on the highway. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie, C3B director and Dow Chemical Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and professor of bioengineering says first responders to the trauma scene could inject the biochip into the wounded victim and gather data almost immediately. The device has other long-term potential applications, such as monitoring astronauts’ vital signs during long-duration space flights and reading blood-sugar levels for diabetics. 'We now lose a large percentage of patients to bleeding, and getting vital information such as how much oxygen is in the tissue back to ER physicians and medical personnel can often mean the difference between life and death,' said Guiseppi-Elie. 'Our goal is to improve the quality and expediency of care for fallen soldiers and civilian trauma victims.' The biochip also may be injected as a precaution to future traumas, he adds. Clemson scientists have formulated a gel that mimics human tissue and reduces the chances of the body rejecting the biochip, which has been a problem in the past. The researcher predicts the biochip is five years away from human trials. The award is funded by the Department of Defense through the Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program and is a joint study with the department of molecular pathology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Telesensors Inc. in Knoxville, Tenn. The Center for Bioelectronics, Biosensors and Biochips ( http://www.clemson.edu/c3b/ ), located in the Clemson University Advanced Materials Center, operates cooperatively with industry in molecular bioanalytics and biometrology research. The center focuses on the development of platform technologies that are of mutual interest to the industrial consortium members and faculty while providing education and training for science-, technology-, engineering- and mathematics-oriented high school students, science teachers, undergraduates, graduate students and post-doctoral trainees. To learn more about Clemson’s graduate program in bioengineering, visit http://www.grad.clemson.edu/programs/Bioeng/ .
COMSET Graduate Fellows Program
Friday, July 27, 2007
The Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies (COMSET) and the Graduate School announces the COMSET Graduate Fellows Program. COMSET expects to provide up to $50,000 this year in stipend supplements to attract and retain nation-best graduate students to come to Clemson and work with COMSET affiliated faculty. The supplements will be valued up to $10,000 per year above an existing stipend. Students must be pursuing the PhD and continuation will be reviewed annually. COMSET Graduate Fellowships must be associated with a GA and assistantship differential from some other source, and may be combined with other fellowships. Proposals will be considered from ANY and ALL Clemson faculty with the intent to assist Clemson in attaining its Top-20 goal by supporting COMSET in its vision to be the internationally recognized academic leader in optical materials. Students supported through this program will be called COMSET Graduate Fellows and will be expected to participate in selected educational and out-reach activities, including Clemson’s Optical Society of America (OSA) student chapter. Proposal Format, Content, and Related Details: 1 A one-page proposal that provides a brief description of the research to be conducted, the advisor(s), and academic department(s). 2 Value and source of the base stipend and assistantship differential. The base stipend must be at least $15,000 to qualify for this program. Preference will be given to applications in which the assistantship differential is provided by an external funding source. 3 Resume of the student along with a statement of their professional goals. 4 Amount of supplement and period of support being proposed ($10,000 maximum each year; re-assessed annually). Submission and Selection Details: All proposals should be submitted electronically to Prof. Dennis Smith, COMSET Associate Director, by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, September 28, 2007; email: dwsmith@clemson.edu Any questions should be forwarded to Dr. Smith as well. Selection will be based on the following priorities: 1 Graduate students whose dissertation is inter-disciplinary. Co-advisement across departments is encouraged. 2 Overarching scientific merit and qualifications of the student. 3 Faculty’s past or present participation in COMSET as exemplified by sponsored programs through COMSET, affiliations on publications, and involvement in out-reach activities. COMSET Research Infrastructure Fund The Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies (COMSET) announces an internal request for proposals to purchase equipment. For the present fiscal year, COMSET has budgeted approximately $300,000 for this infrastructural investment program. Proposals will be considered from ANY and ALL Clemson faculty and staff with the intent to assist Clemson in attaining its Top-20 goal by supporting COMSET in its vision to be the internationally recognized academic leader in optical materials. Proposal Format and Content: Submit a two-page proposal that addresses the following: 1 Description of the instrumentation and justification of the need. 2 List of the faculty (and departments) that would benefit from the proposed instrumentation. 3 Brief description, including funding level and award duration, of any existing sponsored programs that would benefit from this equipment. 4 Brief description of how this equipment will assist the PI in securing future funding through COMSET if this equipment proposal is awarded. 5 Description of similar equipment/facilities on campus and, if so, why is this request justified. 6 Detailed budget for total equipment costs plus a current price quote. 7 Cost share is required. Amount of the cost-share should be described and signed documentation provided from the source. This documentation does not count against the page limit. 8 Expected location of proposed instrumentation and plan for maintenance and up-keep; i.e., if COMSET invests in equipment, how does the PI ensure the equipment operates properly and is available for others to use. Submission and Other Details: 1 All proposals should be submitted electronically to Prof. Steve Foulger, COMSET Associate Director, by 4:30PM on Friday, September 28, 2007; email: foulger@clemson.edu 2 Proposal Processing Forms are not required. 3 Funds must be expended by June 1, 2008. Selection will be based on the following priorities: 1 Instrumentation that supports multiple faculty and departments. 2 Does this proposed instrumentation measurably increase COMSET competitiveness and support the training of students? 3 Does the equipment replace obsolete but essential equipment? 4 Faculty’s past or present participation in COMSET as exemplified by sponsored programs through COMSET, affiliations on publications, and involvement in out-reach activities.
NSF Fellowship Application Seminars Now Offered for Credit
Wednesday, July 25, 2007The Graduate School's seminar series on writing competitive fellowship applications is now being offered for one credit hour. Of the fifteen students who participated in the seminar series last year, three were awarded fellowships -- an impressive success rate (the overall national rate of acceptances to applications is 1:10; when the large number of awards that go to students at the top 2 or 3 universities in the nation is factored in, the rate for the rest of the nation approximately 1:50). The seminar series will consist of three sessions during which student will learn everything they need to know to write competitive fellowship applications. The seminars are three distinct sessions, not the same presentation offered three times. The seminars will cover the basics (eligibility, NSF's Fastlane system, deadlines, etc.) and most importantly, students will learn what is expected in the three essays (personal, prior experiences, proposed research). Students will have the opportunity to write their essays and receive one-on-one comments and editing assistance. The seminar will give students a structured timeframe in which to complete your applications. It will also help you develop essential grant proposal writing skills. The series is being offered twice: once during the day (from 9:00 a.m. until noon on August 29, September 19 and October 10 in the Student Senate Chambers) and once during the evening (from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. on the same dates in 132 Fluor Daniel). The series will be conducted by Valorie Troesch, Assistant Dean of the Graduate School. Troesch has extensive experience working with graduate students who have submitted successful NSF GRF applications. Seminar speakers will include faculty who have served as GRF reviewers and Clemson graduate students who have been awarded the NSF GRF. To be eligible to apply for the NSF GRF, graduate students must not have completed more than 12 months of full-time graduate study. This means that first year graduate students are eligible. In addition, a student can complete 2 academic semesters of graduate study and summer school and still be eligible during the second year of graduate school. Nearly all fields of study are eligible: Life Sciences, Psychology, Mathematical Sciences, Social Sciences, Chemistry, Physics & Astronomy, Engineering, Computer and Information Science & Engineering, and Geosciences. If you have questions, please direct them to Valorie Troesch at vtroesc@clemson.edu.
Dawson to Head ECE Department
Wednesday, July 25, 2007Darren M. Dawson, McQueen Quattlebaum Professor in the Holcombe Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, has been named department chair, effective Aug. 15. A member of Clemson’s College of Engineering and Science faculty since 1990, he presently leads the robotics and mechatronics laboratory. Dawson received a B.S. in electrical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1984. He then worked for Westinghouse as a control engineer. He returned to the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he received his Ph.D. in electrical engineering in 1990. “Darren Dawson brings a unique skill set to the department. His industrial experience, combined with his outstanding research contributions, gives him a unique perspective,” said Esin Gulari, dean of the College of Engineering and Science. Research interests include nonlinear control techniques for mechatronic systems, such as electric machinery, robotic manipulator systems, overhead cranes, magnetic bearings, vision-based systems, mobile platforms (underwater vehicles, surface ships, satellites, aircraft, etc.) and mechanical friction. Dawson has authored or co-authored one graduate textbook, five research monographs, four book chapters and more than 165 journal papers. He has directed 29 Ph.D. dissertations and 51 master's theses. Dawson has received a number of national and university awards for his work, including the Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Award (1994), the National Science Foundation Young Investigator Award (1994), the McQueen-Quattlebaum Faculty Achievement Award (1994), the Georgia Institute of Technology Council of Outstanding Young Engineering Alumni Award (1995), the Sigma Xi Excellence in Research Award (1995), the Clemson University Alumni Award for Outstanding Achievement in Research (1997), the Centennial Professorship (2000), and the Murray Stokely Award for Excellence in Teaching (2003). In the spring of 2007, Dawson was an inaugural co-recipient of the college’s Collaboration Award, which recognizes a team of two or more faculty that has demonstrated exemplary and synergistic collaboration in research or teaching and has made notable contributions to the college. He was recognized for his efforts in the area of nanomaterials and mechatronic-based nanomanufacturing.
PRTM Grad Named Presidential Management Fellow
Tuesday, July 24, 2007Lisa Machnik, who earned her Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management this spring from Clemson, has been appointed a Fellow in the Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program and will begin her 2-year service as a Fellow with the U.S. Forest Service in August. Machnik was nominated by Clemson University for this appointment and completed a competitive application and assessment process. The purpose of the PMF Program is to attract to the Federal service outstanding men and women from a variety of academic disciplines and career paths who have a clear interest in, and commitment to, excellence in the leadership and management of public policies and programs. Fellows can serve in a number of federal agencies. They receive a minimum 2-year appointment and are hired in at the appropriate grade for the position in which the Fellow will serve. The PMF Program is open to graduate students from all academic disciplines who expect to complete an advanced degree (master's, law, or doctoral-level degree) from a qualifying college or university during the current academic year. Interested students must be nominated by their schools and their nominations must demonstrate their breadth and quality of accomplishments, their capacity for leadership, and a commitment to excellence in the leadership and management of public policies and programs. Clemson encourages its graduate students to seek fellowship opportunities such as the PMF Program. Students who receive their graduate degrees between September 1, 2007 through August 31, 2008, may apply for the next PMF Program competition to be held in September through October 2007 for the PMF Class of 2008. Individual help and incentives are also available from the Graduate School; for more information, email Assistant Dean Valorie Troesch.
Doctoral Students in Psych Awarded Prestigious National Fellowships
Tuesday, July 24, 2007Two doctoral students in the human factors psychology program and one in the industrial/organizational psychology program have been awarded prestigious national fellowships. Kristin Moore (human factors psychology) was awarded the Department of Defense (DoD) Science, Mathematics, And Research for Transformation (SMART) Defense Scholarship administered by the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). SMART scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated ability and special aptitude for training and education in science, technology, engineering & mathematics (STEM). The scholarship includes a yearly stipend of $38,000, full tuition and related education fees, health insurance, a book allowance of $1,000, paid summer internships and career opportunities after graduation. Jenna Scisco (human factors psychology) is the recipient of the National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) Fellowship. The NDSEG Fellowship is sponsored and funded by the Department of Defense. Scisco's application was selected by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research from more than 3,400 applications that were received. The NDSEG Fellowship covers tuition and required fees for three years and provides a yearly stipend of approximately $31,000. Laurie Wasko (industrial-organziational psychology) was awrded the first Joyce and Thayer Fellowship in I-O psychology. The Joyce and Thayer Fellowship is designed to provide financial support to a single outstanding doctoral student in I-O psychology who is specializing in training and development and/or selection and placement. The fellowship provides an annual award of $10,000 (from start of academic year through the following summer). In addition, Laurie's selection was recognized during the plenary session at the SIOP annual conference in New York City.
Leadership Clemson to Host Area Businesses in Spelling Bee
Monday, July 23, 2007The First Annual Clemson Area Spelling Bee will be held July 24 at 7 p.m. in the Tillman Hall Auditorium on the Clemson University campus. Proceeds from the bee will benefit Helping Hands of Clemson, a nonprofit emergency shelter for abused and neglected children. Door prizes from area businesses will be given away throughout the evening. The event is hosted by the Leadership Clemson Class of 2007 in partnership with The Daily Messenger/Journal and the College of Business and Behavioral Science at Clemson University. A number of Clemson University faculty, staff and students have signed on to support the event. Prior to the spelling bee, the Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce's Business After Hours will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Tillman Hall Lobby. During this networking event, the Leadership Clemson Class of 2007 will be hosting a silent auction with proceeds going to Helping Hands, and members of Clemson Corps will be offering tours of the historic Military Heritage Plaza surrounding Tillman Hall. Tickets are $5 for adults and $2 for students (with I.D.). The public can purchase tickets at Allen's Creations (400 College Ave. in Clemson) or by calling Meredith McTigue at (864) 656-3747. Tickets will also be available at the door. For more information on the First Annual Clemson Area Spelling Bee, contact Amanda Brock via email at brock4@clemson.edu or by phone at (864) 656-5970. About Leadership Clemson Clemson University participants in the Leadership Clemson Class of 2007 include Dana Anderson (Alumni Relations), Amanda Brock (College of Business and Behavioral Science), Meredith McTigue (College of Business and Behavioral Science), Lisa Powers (Student Affairs) and Geary Robinson (Parking Services).
Leadership Clemson is a leadership development program open to Clemson area citizens. The program encourages individual involvement in leadership roles within the community. Whether you are an existing leader, an emerging leader, or even a newcomer to the city, this program will provide you with a bird's-eye view of what our community is facing. You will also better understand how our community works, be provided with the tools necessary to continue to find ways to enhance our community, and build your leadership skills.
History Division of NASA Seeks Graduate Interns
Monday, July 23, 2007The NASA History Division is seeking graduate students for fall 2007 internships. The History Division maintains archival materials to answer research questions from NASA personnel, journalists, scholars, students at all levels, and others from around the world. The Division also edits and publishes several books and monographs each year and maintains a large number of Web sites on NASA history. Students of all majors are welcome to apply. While detailed prior knowledge of the aeronautics and space fields is not necessary, a keen interest and some basic familiarity with these topics are needed. Strong research, writing, and editing skills are essential. Experience with computers, especially HTML formatting, is a plus. Intern projects are flexible. Typical projects include handling a wide variety of information requests, editing historical manuscripts, doing research and writing biographical sketches, updating and creating Web pages, and identifying and captioning photos. The deadline for fall applications is Aug. 15, 2007. For more information, visit: http://history.nasa.gov/interncall.htm If you have any questions about the program, please contact Ted Bateman, bateman@clemson.edu, who has volunteered to talk with interested individuals from Clemson.
Doctoral Candidate Awarded NSF Grant
Wednesday, July 11, 2007Doctoral candidate Gabe Rivera has been awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation to support a symposium that he is organizing for the annual meeting of the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology in San Antonio, Texas on January 2-6, 2008. The symposium, originally proposed by Mr. Rivera and his advisor, Dr. Rick Blob (Biological Sciences), was chosen by the society from a number of submitted symposia topics. This symposium entitled 'Going with the Flow: Ecomorphological Variation across Aquatic Flow Regimes' will feature 11 invited speakers in the field of functional morphology. Papers from this symposium will be published in the journal Integrative and Comparative Biology.
Translational Bioengineering Research Center planned in Greenville
Friday, July 06, 2007Clemson's board of trustees today reaffirmed the creation of a bioengineering
facility to develop medical technology that will help people live longer and
more comfortably. The Translational Bioengineering Research Center will be located in a
building under construction at the Greenville Hospital System's Patewood Campus.
As many as 50 Clemson scientists and engineers will work with GHS doctors,
nurses and business researchers at the center to develop new medical
technology. Clemson, the Greenville Hospital System and the Orthopedic Research
Foundation of the Carolinas, representing the Steadman-Hawkins Clinic of the
Carolinas, are the core partners in the center. Several corporate partners have
initially invested more than $5 million in the project. They are Smith and
Nephew, a United Kingdom company; Ziehm Imaging, a German-based company; Agfa
Healthcare of Greenville; and Virturad of Phoenix, Ariz. The University will lease space for 15 years at the center to develop
orthopedic and cardiovascular devices, enhance methods of rehabilitation and
performance and analyze trauma data. The center also will house incubator space
for spin-off companies. The trustees approved an agreement for Clemson to pay the maintenance costs
for the center, which it will get from research grants and contracts. The
University has requested $3.5 million from the Research University
Infrastructure Act to upfit the facility. The request has been approved by the
Joint Bond Review Committee but still requires final approval by the Budget and
Control Board. For information about Clemson's graduate program in Bioengineering, visit www.ces.clemson.edu/bio/grad/grad-degrees.html
or contact Dr. Robert Latour at 864-656-5552 or latourr@clemson.edu.
Earn a Master's Degree with Peace Corps Service
Friday, July 06, 2007
The Graduate School is pleased to announce that our students can now take
part in the Peace Corps Master's International (PCMI) program. The PCMI program
is a cooperative effort between Clemson University and the Peace Corps in which
PCMI students complete approximately one year of intensive on-campus study in
one of three major programs, then serve for 27 months in the Peace Corps in an
assignment related to the student's academic program. The Master's International Program provides a tremendous opportunity for
Americans to serve while gaining graduate-level credit,' said Peace Corps
Director Ron Tschetter. 'We are pleased to begin our partnership with Clemson
University, a university with a proud tradition of volunteerism.' The program's intended audience is comprised of recent college graduates who
have a strong desire to pursue an international career but would like additional
academic training before going abroad and students who have graduated from
college, have been in the workforce some time and now wish to obtain a master's
degree and work overseas. Students pursuing advanced degrees in agricultural education, agriculture and
applied economics, and forestry resources are eligible to participate in this
program and have access to many benefits, including the following: 'Our Master's International Program is a cornerstone graduate program that
will enhance our connections, presence and reputation in the international
arena,' said William Molnar, Clemson's program director. 'The Master's
International program gives internationally minded students the academic and
practical experience to meet the global challenges of today and tomorrow.' 'Service to others has long been part of our culture at Clemson and we see
this partnership with the Peace Corps as a doorway to opportunities for our
students and for the people they serve,' Clemson President James F. Barker said.
'As this world grows smaller, it seems our role in it grows larger.' See Peace Corps Master's
International Programs for more detail and how to apply.
LaBerge elected to head Society for Biomaterials
Monday, July 02, 2007
Clemson bioengineering professor and department chairwoman Martine LaBerge
has been elected president of the leading professional society in the
biomaterials/bioengineering field, the Society for Biomaterials (SFB), which
comprises more than 1,000 members from academics, industry, government and
clinics. As SFB president, LaBerge supervises and controls the business and affairs of
the corporation and chairs the meetings committee and the board of
directors. “It is a great honor to lead the SFB. Clemson University has played a pivotal
role in the establishment of the society. I am proud to carry the torch that my
predecessors have passed to me,” she said. LaBerge joined the Clemson faculty in 1990 and has served as head of
bioengineering since 2004. Her research expertise is focused on the evaluation
and characterization of natural and artificial surfaces used in the design of
implants for orthopedic and vascular applications. Her laboratory addresses
fundamental lubrication and wear problems encountered with artificial models.
Current research projects include the investigation of the wear performance of
total knee joint replacements, total knee joint design, dynamic contact
mechanics and surface design for lubrication improvement. A fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering,
she also is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the
American Society for Engineering Education, the Biomedical Engineering Society
and the Orthopedic Research Society. The Clemson University President’s
Commission on the Status of Women presented her with its 2001 Outstanding Woman
Faculty award, recognizing her as an exceptional teacher, mentor and role model
for all students, especially potential women engineers. She holds a bachelor's degree in biological sciences/physiology from the
University of Montreal and bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical
engineering/biomedical engineering from the University of Montreal/Ecole
Polytechnique of Montreal. She received her PhD in biomedical engineering from
the University of Montreal and completed post-doctorate work in civil and
mechanical engineering at the University of Waterloo. For more information about Clemson University’s bioengineering graduate
program, visit www.ces.clemson.edu/bio/grad/grad-degrees.html
or contact Dr. Robert Latour at latourr@clemson.edu.
Creager to Head Chemistry Department
Monday, July 02, 2007
After a nationwide search, Clemson’s College of Engineering and Science found
its new chemistry department chairman in the ranks of current faculty. Stephen
Creager, professor of analytical chemistry, has been named to the post. His
appointment is effective Aug. 15. Creager has been a member of the Clemson faculty since 1995, and served as
Associate Dean of the Graduate School from 2005 to 2007. He earned a bachelor's
degree (1982) in chemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Ph.D.
(1987) in analytical chemistry from the University of North Carolina. He was a
National Institutes of Health postdoctoral fellow at the University of Texas,
1987-89, and taught at Indiana University for six years before coming to
Clemson. His research interests focus on electrochemical science and technology.
Current work involves studies of new materials for electrochemical energy
storage devices such as rechargeable lithium ion batteries and
proton-exchange-membrane hydrogen fuel cells. This research is particularly
relevant to the national focus on developing new ways of using energy,
especially for transportation. He also studies how charges move on the
nanoscale, which is applicable to the emerging field of molecular electronics
where individual molecules serve as active elements in devices such as logic
circuits, memory cells and chemical sensors. Creager is vice chairman of the Electrochemistry Gordon Research Conference
for 2008, and is chairman-elect for the conference in 2009. He is also a board
member for the Society for Electroanalytical Chemistry. He received the 2003 College of Engineering and Science Award for Faculty
Excellence in the Sciences. The award recognizes the science faculty member who
demonstrated the highest level of research achievement during the preceding
year. In 2004, he was one of a three-person team to receive the Crystal Flame
Innovation Award, presented at FuelCellSouth 2004, recognizing a large body of
Clemson work related to fluorinated materials for fuel cells. “We are very fortunate that professor Creager is leading the chemistry
department,” College of Engineering and Science Dean Esin Gulari said. “He
understands that furthering research and developing technologies such as
photonics, advanced materials engineering, biotechnology, nutraceuticals and
nanotechnology hinge upon the advancement of the discipline of chemistry.” “It’s an exciting time to be in a leadership position in chemistry,” Creager
said. “Chemistry is a fundamental science that serves as a foundation to
bioengineering, materials science, physics, nanotechnology and a host of other
disciplines. We have tremendous opportunity for collaboration, which I think is
the future for technical and scientific education.” For more information about Clemson University’s chemistry graduate program,
visit http://chemistry.clemson.edu/graduate
or contact Dr. Steve Stuart at ss@clemson.edu.
Clemson Co-founds Automotive Research Alliance
Sunday, July 01, 2007Clemson University and six of the Southeast's other most prominent universities, along with the National Transportation Research Center Inc. (NTRCI), the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Wednesday launched the Automotive Research Alliance (ARA). Ritchey said ARA will benefit the automotive industry by: 'Southeastern states rely on the automotive industry, both OEMs and suppliers, for so many of their manufacturing jobs today,' said Dr. Dana C. Christensen, Associate Director for Energy and Engineering Sciences at ORNL. Clemson is a leading innovator in the automotive research. In addition to offering graduate degrees in automotive engineering, Clemson is home to the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) and to several endowed chairs in the field, made possible by the South Carolina's legislature's Research Centers of Economic Excellence Endowed Chairs initiative. For more information about graduate programs in automotive engineering, see www.ces.clemson.edu/me/automotive. For more information about CU-ICAR, visit www.clemson.edu/autoresearch.
The ARA will provide a broad range of research resources to automotive manufacturers and suppliers, including technology and manufacturing solutions as well as academic and training programs.
'We want to position the alliance as a preferred source of industry-specific expertise, research, intellectual property and academic programs for the U.S. automotive industry,' said Ben Ritchey, acting president of NTRCI, which will serve as the umbrella organization for the ARA.
The co-founding Southeastern universities are Auburn, Clemson, Mississippi State, Alabama at Tuscaloosa, Alabama at Birmingham, Kentucky and Tennessee. All of the schools are leading research institutes and all are located in states with major automotive manufacturing and supply facilities.
NTRCI, a not-for-profit research corporation affiliated with the National Transportation Research Center in East Tennessee, will function as that clearinghouse, Ritchey said.
Grad Student Named Diversity Leader
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Darris Means, a graduate student in the counselor education or student
affairs program, was selected to receive the Diversity Leadership Award from the
Richard Riley Institute at the third annual Update Diversity Leadership Awards
Dinner on Tuesday, May 8, 2007. Means' research to date has focused on racial
and social segregation and he is interested in empowering young people who face
The Upstate Diversity Leadership Awards Dinner was presented by the Riley
Institute at Furman University and was hosted by the Spartanburg, Greenville,
and Anderson chambers of commerce. Local leaders in promoting diversity were
recognized at the dinner in six different categories ranging from individual
high school student through business leaders. Means won his award as
'Outstanding College Student.' To learn more about these awards, visit the Rile
Institute's website at www.furman.edu/riley/. To learn more about the counselor education graduate program and other
graduate programs in Clemson's Eugene T. Moore School of education visit http://www.hehd.clemson.edu/schoolofed/graduate.htm
Clemson and Sun Microsystems Boost Computational Research for Transportation Industry
Sunday, July 01, 2007Clemson University is helping the United States transportation sector shift to a higher gear with the opening of its Computational Center for Mobility Systems (CU-CCMS), a technology anchor of the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) campus in Greenville, SC. Powered by a high-performance computing (HPC) system from Sun Microsystems, CU-CCMS will be a comprehensive, world-class computational center that encompasses a wide range of disciplines under one roof. CU-CCMS executive director, Dr. James H. Leylek, an internationally recognized expert in computational modeling and advanced methods development, said the center will offer one-stop shopping for clients in mobility industries that include automotive manufacturers and their suppliers, the aerospace industry, motorsports teams, heavy trucks, shipbuilders, aviation and gas turbine companies. 'This center will reduce both the time and money that it takes to get an aerodynamically sound vehicle or an optimized engine into the marketplace,' Leylek said. 'Manufacturers can simulate multiple design options simultaneously by running computations overnight and build the final product only once, instead of the more traditional build-and-test cycles, which drive up cost and time.' The ultimate goal of CU-CCMS is to help its clients reduce the overall design-cycle-time of their products. The Sun Microsystems HPC at the heart of CU-CCMS is designed to help the center's technical staff handle all phases of multiple, large-scale simulations simultaneously. The system comprises grid computing, servers, storage, archive sub-systems and a dedicated high-speed InfiniBand fabric from Voltaire. In addition to its impressive throughput of more than 11 teraflops, this powerful engineering problem-solving system is well-balanced in both CPU usage and RAM, making it especially well-suited for dealing with computations encountered in vehicle aerodynamics and structural analysis programs. Leylek says computations that traditionally required many weeks of around-the-clock processor time can now be completed in just a matter of hours using Sun's complete range of servers; software, including the Solaris 10 Operating System; services; and systems. He adds the center will provide a complete resolution center for just about any problem that can be computed, predicted and simulated in the transportation industry. CU-CCMS will enable engineers to conduct a large number of 'what if'-type computational simulations that will result in ideas getting into products, and products making it to the marketplace, ahead of competition and at a reduced cost. The CU-CCMS start-up is funded through a $17 million alliance between 'We are delighted to support Clemson in the opening of a world-class automotive research facility in CU-CCMS technical staff will be located at temporary headquarters within the CU-ICAR is a new model for economic development in The Carroll A. Campbell Jr. Graduate Engineering Center (CGEC), scheduled to open later this year, is the academic component of CU-ICAR, with the nation's only master's and doctoral degree programs in automotive engineering. CU-ICAR is located in the Interstate 85 corridor, midway between
Graduate School Certified as TOEFL Test Administration Site
Monday, June 25, 2007The Graduate School at Clemson University announced today that it has reached an agreement with Educational Testing Services (ETS) to offer the internet-based version of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) at Clemson University. "Becoming an approved ETS certified test administration site is an important step in internationalizing Clemson's campus," said Bruce Rafert, dean of the Graduate School. The Graduate School is leading the way toward a truly international campus with initiatives like this one and others such as the International Ambassadors Program (www.grad.clemson.edu/ambassadors_intro.php). "We're looking forward to the opportunity this certification affords us to compete globally for the best students - both graduate and undergraduate," said Rafert. Graduate applications at Clemson have increased by 49 percent in the past two years. ETS administers more than 50 million tests each year, including the TOEFL, in more than 180 countries. More than 6,000 institutions and agencies in 110 countries rely on TOEFL scores to select students with the English skills needed to succeed in their educational programs. The test will be offered on the Clemson campus. For more information about ETS or the TOEFL iBT, please contact Tristam Aldridge at 864-656-2561 or saldrid@clemson.edu.
NASA fellowship goes to Clemson Physics Student.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Bethany Johns, second-year doctoral student in physics, was
honored by recently being selected for a 2007 NASA Graduate Student Researcher
Program (GRSP) fellowship. Bethany's research covers the mystery of the positron
annihilation emission from the galactic bulge with a focus on supernovae as the
cause for the emission. In response to her award, Bethany stated, 'I was completed
shocked. The award is very prestigious, and I had already received the South
Carolina Space Grant; I wasn't expecting to be accepted. The money the
fellowship provides will allow me to focus on my research. In addition,
the fellowship requires an internship with the NASA center I applied to, Goddard
Space Flight Center, which adds another dimension of opportunity to my
research.' For more information about the NASA Graduate Student Researcher
Program, visit http://fellowships.hq.nasa.gov/gsrp/nav.
To find out more about Clemson's graduate program in physics,
visit http://physicsnt.clemson.edu/?main=p_grad&sub=programs
or contact Dr. Mark Leising at lmark@clemson.edu.
The GSRP awards fellowships for graduate
study leading to advanced degrees in the science, mathematics and engineering
fields specifically related to NASA research and development. This 12-month
award includes a $30,000 grant to Clemson-renewable for up to three years-and a
required internship at the NASA Center affiliated with the NASA-sponsored
research.
Guiseppi-Elie Named Guest Editor of NanoBiotechnology
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Anthony Guiseppi-Elie, Dow Chemical Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular
Engineering, has been named guest editor for NanoBiotechnology, a journal
dedicated to science and engineering at the intersection of nanotechnology,
molecular biology and biomedical sciences. For more information about Clemson's graduate program in biochemistry and
molecular biology, visit: www.clemson.edu/genbiochem/gradprograms.html
Guiseppi-Elie will serve as
guest editor for the special issue titled 'Frontiers in BioCompatibility.' This
special issue will explore the emerging roles of bioactive, responsive,
biologically inspired materials by design, biomimicry and nano-topography in
addressing long-term implant biocompatibility.
'Biocompatibility has been
a grand challenge problem for several decades,' said Guiseppi-Elie. 'Recent
attention reflects a shift in thinking regarding strategies to mitigate the
inflammatory response. This is reflected in a movement away from bio-benign
materials to bioactive designs. This special issue of NanoBiotechnolgy seeks to
document the current state of the science and engineering regarding
biocompatibility.'
Guiseppi-Elie is a founding member of the editorial
board of NanoBiotechnology. He also serves on the editorial advisory boards of
the Journal of Bioactive and Compatible Polymers, which is dedicated to
fundamentals of science and engineering materials used in biology and medicine,
and Your World, a journal of biotechnology developed for high school
students.
Along with teaching bioengineering, he serves as director of
the Clemson University Center for Bioelectronics, Biosensors and Biochips.
Leaving No Families Outside during Child Abuse Prevention Month
Monday, April 16, 2007April was Child Abuse Prevention Month and Strong Communities, an initiative of IFNL, wanted all families to be included so that no family was left outside. 'Leaving No Families Outside' was the Strong Communities theme for April, 2007. The goal of Strong Communities is to encourage all segments of the community to embrace families with young children to form a community that is so strong, it won't allow any young families to remain outside. As neighbors come together in activities that allow them to get to know one another's children, families are supported and children are safer. The Strong Communities website lists activities for families to get to know one another, launch of a book about a small town, Fountain Inn, authored by residents celebrating Fountain Inn as a strong community and information on Blue Ribbon Sabbath. Original article located at: http://virtual.clemson.edu/groups/ifnl/archive/headlines.html
Article Based on Graduate's Thesis Becomes Required Reading
Wednesday, February 07, 2007MAPC graduates’ theses and projects often yield important ideas that can benefit the profession. Kathy (Pringle) Jeep, 2005 MAPC graduate, took steps to get her ideas out to the profession by publishing an article based on her thesis. The article, co-authored with her committee chair, Dr. Sean Williams, appeared in the August 2005 issue of Technical Communication, the peer-reviewed journal of the Society of Technical Communication. Titled “The Future is the Past: Has Technical Communication Arrived as a Profession?”, Kathy and Sean’s article has now been listed as required reading for MA students in technical writing at the University of Central Florida. This honor is recognition that the article contains important information for the profession. STC members can access the article through the publications section of the STC website at www.stc.org.
National Science Foundation Names Clemson As Research Site
Friday, October 20, 2006The National Science Foundation has selected Clemson University as a research site for the Center for Engineering Logistics and Distribution (CELDi), an Industry/University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC). The selection has the potential to affect the flow of raw materials, scheduling production and distributing finished goods for everything from Homeland Security and disaster preparedness to automobile production and distribution.
As a CELDi university, Clemson receives at least $1 million over a three-year period through industry projects and matching contributions. Last year, the total value of the research shared among members was $2 million. Clemson industrial engineering professor Bill Ferrell, director of the research site, said this is attractive to corporations, such as Lockheed Martin, that have partnered with Clemson. Lockheed Martin’s Supply Chain Programs director Tom Goudreau agreed.
“Having Clemson University selected as a CELDi research site is a great opportunity for the logistics community as a whole to benefit from the tremendous services they offer. Clemson is helping to shape the future of logistics, and any model where industry and academia can partner ultimately results in strategic benefits for all involved,” said Goudreau.
“This is a tremendous vote of confidence in Clemson by the National Science Foundation as well as a valued industry partner, Lockheed Martin,” said Clemson President Jim Barker.
The research site is a component of a broader plan that includes an endowed chair in supply chain optimization and logistics. The Research Centers for Economic Excellence program, created by the South Carolina legislature, has approved $2 million for the chair at Clemson, and efforts are under way to secure matching funds.
As a research site, Clemson joins eight universities nationwide in developing integrated solutions to logistics and supply chain problems. The work will enhance the United States’ competitive edge in the world by producing and delivering products into the marketplace more quickly and efficiently. For example, in 1990, IBM reportedly reduced its U.S. spare parts inventory investment half a billion dollars by addressing stocking levels that use an integrated logistics approach.
Ferrell said Clemson will bring unique expertise in modeling and analysis to the group.
“This is an elite group of universities and industries that think beyond the traditional approaches to logistics. CELDi is a good fit for Clemson because none of the universities has sufficient resources to address all logistics problems, but we can each have world-class expertise in certain areas that when put together is impressive,” he said.
“Just like automobile companies and their suppliers have the opportunity to work with Clemson on vehicle design issues through CU-ICAR, their supply chain logistics and planning issues can now come through CELDi.
“We’re also currently seeking partners in the Homeland Security and disaster preparedness arena to address logistics that are so important to national and personal security.”
CELDi is based on sharing research among members so industry partners can work with Fortune 500 companies in manufacturing, maintenance, distribution, transportation and information technology.
Industrial engineering research at Clemson is rooted in industry needs.
“Our programs apply rigorous principles to real problems to assist industrial partners in remaining competitive. This research is vital for economic development,” said Anand Gramopadhye, industrial engineering department chairman. “For instance, we worked on a solution for one client that was faced with many possible strategies for moving products from production facilities to retail outlets, but had no quantitative way to determine the combination that was best for them in terms of customer service and cost.”
Clemson’s vice president for research and economic development, Chris Przirembel, said scholarly research within the context of real applications is invaluable.
“Our industrial engineering department has been solving real world problems for some time. With this partnership, we now have the opportunity to increase our research capacity while partnering with major universities and corporations to help solve global logistical issues,” he said. “This is an extremely effective integration of resources from academia and industry.”
Other universities participating include the University of Arkansas, University of Oklahoma, University of Louisville, University of Nebraska, Oklahoma State University, Lehigh University, University of Florida and Texas Tech University.
One other NSF Industry/University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC) exists in South Carolina –– the Center for Fuel Cells at University of South Carolina in Columbia.
Testing, Research Equipment Puts Clemson Automotive Engineering Graduate Program In A Class By Itself
Wednesday, September 27, 2006Major automotive testing and research equipment, valued at nearly $10 million, for the automotive engineering graduate program in Clemson University's International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) gives students and faculty access to a unique world-class laboratory. Several companies that are worldwide leaders in their respective specialties made in-kind gifts totaling $2.3 million to make the equipment purchase possible.
The equipment includes an MTS seven-post shaker unit with a Weiss climate chamber, an FEV engine dynamometer, a RENK Test Systems chassis dynamometer and a state-of-the-art coordinate measuring machine from Carl Zeiss IMT Corporation and J&H Machine Tool. Tom Kurfess, the BMW Chair in Manufacturing at Clemson and director of the Carroll A. Campbell Graduate Engineering Center, which will house the automotive engineering program when the building is complete next year, said these tools make a testing and diagnostic platform like no other. 'I don't know of another university in the country - maybe in the world - that has this combination of equipment under one roof,' he said. 'Clemson students and faculty are fortunate indeed. We are very excited.' The equipment manufacturers are the newest supporters of the automotive industry to join the CU-ICAR team that includes BMW, Michelin, Timken and SAE. MTS Systems Corporation, headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minn., has more than four decades of ground vehicle testing expertise, providing full-vehicle, system and component-level testing solutions for a broad spectrum of vehicle development applications. Additional information on the company is available at www.mts.com. Germany-based Weiss is a major producer of standard testing chambers and systems for environmental simulation worldwide. The product range comprises temperature and climate testing systems as well as test systems for simulated exposure to weather, temperature shock, corrosion and for long-time testing in various test chamber volumes. For more information, visit the company's web site at www.wut.com. FEV is an independent engine and powertrain systems research, design and development company with facilities worldwide. FEV's Test Systems group from Auburn Hills, Mich., which specializes in the design and fabrication of engine test facilities and equipment, will provide an advanced, containerized engine test cell for use in gasoline and diesel engine research and development. Additional information is available at www.fev.com. RENK Test Systems, with headquarters in Augsburg, Germany, along with their U.S. operation, RENK LABECO Test Systems Corporation in Mooresville, Ind., design and build turnkey test systems for research/development, production and quality assurance. Their activities focus on automotive, railway and aerospace industries. The company's web site is www.renk.biz. Headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany, Carl Zeiss Industrial Measuring Technology (IMT) is a member of the Carl Zeiss Group. It is the global leader in CNC coordinate measuring machines and complete, multi-dimensional metrology solutions for a wide variety of industrial sectors. Carl Zeiss is a globally leading international group of companies in the optical and opto-electronic industries. The company offers a spectrum of leading-edge solutions and products for semiconductor and optoelectronic technology, life sciences and health care, eye care and industrial applications. More information is available at www.zeiss.com/imt. J&H Machine Tools, Inc., based in Charlotte, N.C., is a machine tool distributor providing the manufacturing community with high-quality machine tools for metal removal and precision inspection. The company's web site is www.jhtools.com. CU-ICAR equipment consultant George Trask, who coordinated the purchase, praised the companies for their generosity and for what their involvement means to CU-ICAR. 'These names are recognized throughout the automotive industry for their quality and commitment to excellence,' he said. 'Their combined support of CU-ICAR will be of great benefit to our students, and it also serves as a message to other potential industry partners that this program has the support of industry leaders.' Unique funding support Just as the equipment is unique, so is the funding process that made it possible. South Carolina legislation provides state funds to match private dollars for higher education research infrastructure. In this case, the equipment manufacturers donated a portion of the cost, which Clemson was able to utilize as matching funds. 'This innovative legislation - the South Carolina Research Infrastructure Bond Act - leverages and enhances private support for higher education,' Kurfess said. 'Through the generosity of the manufacturers and the vision of the South Carolina legislation, we are able to provide our research teams with about $9.6 million worth of equipment for approximately $5 million. That is true investment in education. 'We have been very gratified by the response of the automotive industry to CU-ICAR, and we anticipate that as we tell the story of this outstanding public-private partnership that focuses on both education and economic development, there will be other companies who will want to join the CU-ICAR team. They will be most welcome,' Kurfess added. Similar legislation, the South Carolina Research Centers of Economic Excellence endowed chairs program, also provides state education lottery funds to match private funding to attract top-flight faculty. The CU-ICAR graduate program has four such chairs, including Kurfess. The Campbell Graduate Engineering Center is the focal point for academic research and technology transfer in support of the automotive industry and offers M.S. and Ph.D. programs in automotive engineering with emphasis in systems integration. Facilities for full-scale vehicle and component testing are integral to the program. Clemson University Vice President for Research and Economic Development Chris Przirembel noted that the potential for the presence of the engine test cell equipment in the CGEC has already contributed to the Timken Company announcing a relocation of its power train group to the CU-ICAR campus, bringing high-paying new jobs to the Upstate. This equipment and these facilities will also bring automotive suppliers and motor sports companies to the CU-ICAR campus for testing and research purposes. 'This unique laboratory is very impressive,' Przirembel said. 'Students conversant with this technology will be invaluable to the industry.'
