Four historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have received grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to bolster their research infrastructure and expand their scientific capabilities. This significant investment underscores the NSF’s commitment to promoting research excellence across diverse institutions and empowering underrepresented communities in STEM fields.

The awarded institutions are:

Prairie View A&M University (Texas): The grant will support the development of a new research facility, focusing on materials science and engineering. This will enhance the university’s capacity to conduct cutting-edge research and attract top talent.

Morgan State University (Maryland): The funding will establish a state-of-the-art cybersecurity laboratory. This initiative will provide students and faculty with the resources to address critical cybersecurity challenges and train the next generation of experts.

Tuskegee University (Alabama): The university will use the grant to expand its research program in bioengineering and biotechnology, with a focus on agricultural applications. This will further strengthen Tuskegee’s reputation as a leader in agricultural research.

Florida A&M University: The funding will support the establishment of a Center for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. This center will facilitate research in these rapidly evolving fields, fostering innovation and addressing real-world challenges.

These grants represent a crucial step towards achieving greater equity and inclusivity in scientific research. By providing HBCUs with the resources to build their research ecosystems, the NSF aims to create a more diverse and vibrant scientific landscape. This investment will not only empower these institutions but also empower talented students and researchers from underrepresented backgrounds, fostering groundbreaking discoveries and addressing critical societal challenges.