Morehouse College, a historically black institution, has a long tradition in the development of African American men for careers in science. A majority of these men have been trained in Merrill Hall, home to the chemistry department. Constructed in 1952, the present facility is devoid of the required physical infrastructure required to support modern chemical research and research training activities. Deficiencies include: inadequate ventilation and air conditioning, leaking pipes, inoperable fume hoods, poor lighting, and inadequate chemical storage facilities. Laboratories are in violation of federal safety regulations and building codes. Not only are conditions hazardous to students and faculty, but they are potentially damaging to research instruments. This Academic Research Infrastructure award will provide funds to assist Morehouse College in its endeavors to renovate the second and third floors of the Merrill Chemistry Building. Laboratories will be reconfigured into functional areas where research in analytical, physical, inorganic, and materials chemistry can be conducted. In addition to upgrading infrastructural systems, the renovation will involve the installation of new fume hoods, benches, and casework. Morehouse's role in undergraduate science is particularly significant in light of the rapidly declining numbers of students, especially minorities, who enter scientific fields. The shortage of scientifically trained African Americans has serious implications for the future of a nation increasingly dependent on scientific and technological advances. A renovated Merrill Hall will strengthen the institution's role in developing young scientists to meet this challenge.
