ABSTRACT Considerable economic loss is suffered at the hands of mechanical designs that do not incorporate sufficient knowledge about tribological processes. Yet because only a handful of academic departments offer study in tribology, there remains a critical national need to produce experts in this rapidly emerging field. Funds are requested from the National Science Foundation to sponsor five (5) students for graduate study leading to the Ph.D. in the field of tribology. With five faculty in the tribology area, a selection of courses covering tribological topics as well as extensive laboratory facilities for tribological experimentation, the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, is well equipped to provide academic training for sponsored GRTP students. The School will aggressively recruit outstanding students will seek to promote awareness and interest in the tribology field among undergraduates. The School will also take advantage of a number of special programs to identify and attract talented students from underrepresented groups. The GRTP students will receive a comprehensive educational experience, including: (1) quality mentoring from a faculty advisor; (2) formal training in tribology fundamentals; (3) access to high quality laboratory facilities; (4) participation in a graduate seminar series; (5) travel to and presentation at national conferences; and (6) involvement in tribology instruction to undergraduates.
