About

EPSCoR RII Track 1

Gravitational Wave Astrophysics and the Appalachian Freshwater Initiative

Research efforts are led by research teams at West Virginia University, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University.

The effort builds on recent investments by all three institutions, the state, and federal agencies in new faculty hires, shared experimental facilities, high-speed networks, and comprehensive workforce development programs. With both research areas working collaboratively in areas of overlapping activity, this RII provides opportunities for scientists, engineers, mathematicians, computer scientists, and students in academic institutions and federal research centers to collaborate. The research discoveries, education, and workforce development programs will enhance the prosperity of West Virginia and the nation. Additionally, part of the research efforts will develop and retain STEM teachers. Predominantly undergraduate institutions are actively engaged in related research and workforce development activities.

Vision

West Virginia EPSCoR will conduct research to manage the risks of environmental contamination and to ensure a future clean water supply in West Virginia and across the nation. At the same time, West Virginia EPSCoR will use local resources to build a nationally and internationally competitive gravitational waves detection program.

Mission

To integrate research, education, workforce development, and active participant science activities by expanding and enhancing collaborations across and within disciplines with the same goal– enhancing the prosperity of the West Virginia and the nation.

The RII projects have five implementation goals:

1. Research infrastructure and scientific knowledge–advance fundamental science and inform the application of that science through the Appalachian Freshwater Initiative;
2. Research infrastructure and scientific knowledge– advance fundamental science and inform the application of that science through Gravitational Wave Astrophysics research;
3. Education and workforce development–develop a healthy STEM pipeline in West Virginia to provide a STEM capable workforce for the future;
4. Diversity–improve the diversity of the STEM workforce in West Virginia, including underrepresented persons (UREP), underrepresented minorities (URM), and women; and
5. Partnerships–build the foundation for technology transfer from the academic institutions to industry while also developing partnerships with other institutions of higher education, including community colleges; K-12 schools; existing and new businesses and industries, and national laboratories; as well as other entities relevant to this research.

Strategic Plan Goals