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South Dakota State University's Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering will serve as the host of a new National Science Foundation-backed Research Experiences for Undergraduates site, aimed at giving students experience with cutting-edge research in energy and power systems. 

This summer, a group of undergraduate researchers will have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in energy and power systems here in Brookings, thanks to funding from the National Science Foundation.

South Dakota State University's Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering has been named as a host for a new Research Experiences for Undergraduates site. Jeffrey Doom, associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, will lead the REU site, titled "Pioneering Opportunities Within Energy and Resource Systems for Undergraduate Research (POWER-UP)." 

“POWER-UP is about giving undergraduates meaningful, hands-on research experiences that connect fundamental engineering principles to real-world energy challenges,” Doom said. “Students will work side-by-side with faculty on problems ranging from net-zero propulsion to resilient power systems, gaining skills that prepare them for graduate school, industry, and national laboratories.”

One of the projects will see students investigate net-zero emission strategies in supersonic engines, focusing on hydrogen combustion and comparing emissions and performance with standard ethylene, a potential type of jet fuel. Another project will explore the effects of renewable energy source integration on baseload power plants. All of the site's projects will address grand challenges in energy and power systems through high-impact, faculty-mentored projects spanning the fields of aerospace, civil, electrical and mechanical engineering, as well as mathematics and computer science.

"These projects provide undergraduates with immersive experiences in modeling, simulation, data analysis and experimental methods," Doom noted.

POWER-UP is designed to expand participation in STEM for all its students, including those from rural institutions, community colleges, tribal colleges and individuals from nontraditional pathways such as military service. The program provides a collaborative, hands-on research environment that promotes critical thinking, professional development and scientific integrity. Participants contribute to projects with tangible societal and technological impact, including grid resilience, power systems optimization and energy technologies.

POWER-UP is funded through a three-year, $451,379 grant from NSF.