This HBCU-RISE proposal will allow Norfolk State University to establish the resources and research capabilities for the development of novel and functional materials for renewable energy in the Center for Materials Research (CMR)and Engineering department. The research components under this proposal are: (a) Development and enhancement of capability of fabrication of thin multi-Junction films for solar cells applications; (b) Development and enhancement of capability of fabrication of low bandgap Polymers for solar cells applications; and (c) Development of nanostructures for hybrid solar cells and nanobatteries. The proposed project will provide the resources to develop the Center's infrastructure by broadening its research capabilities, with the addition of materials for renewable energy, their design and preparation, and increase the Center's human resources capacity by the training the young faculty researchers to become independent investigators and also increase the opportunities for training in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) among underrepresented minority groups
