Welcome to Fall Semester 2026
The Third Annual Iowa NSF EPSCoR Symposium brought together researchers, students, and partners from across the state for a full day of connection, learning, and collaboration at the University of Iowa. We welcomed a strong and engaged group of attendees who participated in a keynote from Patrick Mueller (IBI Scientific), interactive sessions led by Jeff Keuter (the University of Iowa) and Amy Colbert (the University of Iowa), and student-focused programming with Taylor Sklenar (Iowa State University). From industry-focused discussions to hands-on professional development and research presentations, the symposium highlighted the growing momentum and collaboration shaping this work across Iowa.
Welcome back to campus for the Fall 2026 semester.
We look forward to another productive semester of collaboration, discovery, and innovation across our community. We are pleased to share several leadership updates for the new semester. Marcy Seavey has assumed the role of Associate Director for Education, Workforce Development, and Broadening Participation, and Dr. Zengyi Shao has joined the team as Associate Director for Research and Technology Transfer. Dr. Reza Nejadnik and Dr. Marna Yandeau-Nelson have also been named Chemurgy 2.0 Focal Area Co-Leads. Dr. Nejadnik will co-lead the Proteins for Diagnostics and Therapeutics focal area, while Dr. Yandeau-Nelson will co-lead Plastics for Additive Manufacturing.
We also extend our appreciation and best wishes to Dr. Nigel Reuel as he transitions from Associate Director for Research and Technology Transfer to serve as Chief Technology Officer for the newly announced RuralSTAMINA program.
Wishing you a successful and energizing semester ahead!
Education & Workforce Development (EWD) Seed Funding Now Available
The Chemurgy 2.0 Education and Workforce Development (EWD) Seed Funding Program has officially launched its third round of seed funding, inviting proposals from Iowa-based institutions, schools, nonprofits, and government organizations. This funding opportunity supports high-impact educational projects that increase awareness of biomanufacturing and strengthen career pathways for Iowa students.
Round 3 prioritizes curriculum development projects for 9th–12th-grade students, focusing on aligning content with Iowa science standards and integrating authentic examples from Iowa-based biomanufacturing research. Priority will be given to proposals that connect directly to one of Chemurgy 2.0’s three technical focus areas: Plastics for Additive Manufacturing, Fibers for Flexible and Rigid Materials, and Proteins for Diagnostics and Therapeutics.
Proposals of up to $50,000 will be accepted on a rolling basis until available funds are awarded. The program anticipates funding two to three projects this round. All funded projects must be completed by July 31, 2027, and must include travel for at least one project representative to present results at the next Chemurgy 2.0 Annual Symposium, held at Iowa State University in July 2027.
Eligible lead institutions include Iowa public or private colleges and universities, K–12 schools, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and state, county, or municipal government entities. Project teams must include Iowa scientists actively engaged in biomanufacturing research and curriculum development specialists. Final project outputs must be made freely available to Iowa high schools and the broader educational community.
For more information about proposal requirements, eligibility, and how to apply, visit the Chemurgy 2.0 EWD Seed Funding Program page or contact Marcy Seavey at marcene.seavey@uni.edu.
Summer 2026 REU and RET Highlights
This summer, Iowa NSF EPSCoR supported five Chemurgy 2.0 participants through our REU and RET programs. REU students Greta Musgrave and Sage Perkins, along with RET educators Brenna McIlvoy, Erin McBroom, and Luizviminda Dinglasan, gained hands-on research experience, connected with mentors and peers, and explored new ways to bring curiosity, voice, and agency into STEM learning.
Across six weeks, participants contributed to research in areas including advanced materials, computational biology, and sustainable bioplastics while taking part in professional learning sessions. The experience strengthened their confidence as researchers and educators and will help bring more authentic, student-centered science learning to classrooms.
Pictured: Greta Musgrave and Brenna McIlvoy in the lab.
Read the full write-up here to explore participants’ reflections and research posters.
Lunch and Learn - Regulatory Pathways: Case Studies and Tips with Carl Ross Now Available
Now on our YouTube channel: Carl Ross, Director of Development at the University of Iowa’s Center for Biocatalysis and Bioprocessing, shares real-world case studies and practical insights for navigating regulatory pathways in biomanufacturing.
Watch his full talk here.
News
AAAS NSF EPSCoR Project Locator
The U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Engineering has announced three funding opportunities supporting foundational research in chemical, bioengineering, energy and transport systems; civil, mechanical and manufacturing innovation; and electrical, communications and computing systems. Proposals are accepted year-round. Researchers are encouraged to contact program representatives to discuss proposal fit. Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GFRP) The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) supports outstanding students pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees in eligible STEM fields. The fellowship includes a three-year annual stipend, cost-of-education allowance, professional development opportunities, and access to a national community of scholars. Biobased Products Innovation Grants
Iowa State researchers led by Dr. Nigel Reuel are developing affordable Bioreactor Educational Activity Kits, or BREAKs, to introduce high school and community college students to hands-on biomanufacturing. The kits enable students to build and experiment with small bioreactors while exploring biobased-product processes and career opportunities. |
Events
Healthcare Career Pathway Day (September 29)
Exhibitors wanted: Healthcare organizations and community partners are invited to lead 10–15 minute interactive demonstrations for groups of 10–15 high school students (grades 10–12) on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM at Dubuque Senior High School. Students will explore healthcare careers and industry trends through hands-on activities with professionals.
Learn more and register here.
Northeast Iowa Family STEM Festival (October 8)
Exhibitors wanted: Bring engaging, interactive STEM demonstrations like experiments or games for families and youth (PreK–8, all ages welcome) on Thursday, October 8, 2026, 4:00–7:00 PM at the Youth Development Center in Monticello. The festival-style event brings STEM to life for eastern Iowa families while sparking curiosity and introducing STEM careers.
Learn more and register here.
NSF Webinars
I-Corps Events
UofI I-Corps Cohort Program - (9/14)
Materials, Manufacturing & Energy in the Age of AI I-Corps (10/1)
ISU I-Corps Cohort Program - (10/21)
Stay up-to-date with our Events here!
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Award No.2242763