Prof. Genzer Receives UTFORSK Funding for Collaborative Sustainability Project

Congratulations to Professor Jan Genzer for being a co-recipient of the UTFORSK-funded project titled “Integrating Research & Education in Sustainable Chemical Engineering for Batteries & Water Treatment.” Prof. Genzer will work closely with Prof. Sulalit Bandyopadhyay from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and Prof. Ethayaraja Mani from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-M). 

This program, sponsored by the Norwegian government, offers a unique opportunity to develop new classes in sustainability, including water purification, recycling, and energy. NTNU, NC State, and IIT Madras faculty will develop and teach the courses. They will feature advanced pedagogical methods, including active learning and various forms of communication (oral, written, and graphical). We envision that this effort might lay the groundwork for establishing a joint M.S. degree in sustainability.

Prof. Genzer and the CBE Department were selected as partners in this project because the department integrates research and education seamlessly to deliver innovative solutions to water treatment by developing novel materials. They have also previously implemented research-based teaching and student active learning. The project aspires to blend global perspectives with local practices while focusing on global sustainable development issues and local needs.

NC State M.S. students will benefit from the course contents and interaction with their Norwegian and Indian colleagues. This unique opportunity will enable multicultural and multiracial interactions among students from three continents. NC State students will travel to Trondheim, one of the oldest cities in Scandinavia, and learn about Norwegian culture, geography, and history.