Congressman Thompson Announces Nearly $800,000 in National Science Foundation Awards to Jackson State University and Alcorn State University

BOLTON, MS – Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) is pleased to announce two significant National Science Foundation (NSF) awards supporting advanced research and STEM education initiatives at two of Mississippi’s distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Jackson State University has been awarded $390,000.00 for a project entitled "Excellence in Research: Processes and Interactions in Plasmonic Systems" under the direction of Dr. Tigran Shahbazyan. This project, beginning August 1, 2025, will support theoretical and computational research and education focused on strong light-matter interactions in hybrid nanoscale systems. The work aims to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in plasmonic systems, which have applications in optics, communications, and sensing technologies.

Alcorn State University has been awarded $398,619.00 for a project entitled "Targeted Infusion Project: Elevate Learning with Interactive Technology Enhancements (ELITE) in STEM at Alcorn State University", under the direction of Dr. Hua-Jun Fan. Beginning August 15, 2025, this project is funded through the NSF’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP). The Targeted Infusion Project supports the development, implementation, and study of innovative, evidence-based models aimed at improving undergraduate STEM education and student success. The ELITE project at Alcorn State will enhance student learning through interactive technology and prepare students for graduate study and careers in STEM.