The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering news for undergraduates

COE Cafe: Change to Operating Hours

You asked, we listened! Seminole Dining and the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering are excited to introduce a new self-service market at the COE Cafe, providing after-hours access to snacks, beverages, and grab-and-go items 7 days a week. We hope this added convenience better serves the College of Engineering community, whether you're starting your day early or working late into the evening.

Please note that during regular café operating hours (Monday-Friday, 7:30 am to 3:00 pm), customers should continue checking out with the cashier as usual. Regular café purchases may be paid with credit/debit cards, Dining Dollars, FSUCash, Cash Equivalency, FAMU Rattler Bucks, FAMU Flex Bucks, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay. After-hours self-service purchases may be paid with credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or Google Pay.

You're Invited: 4th Annual Coast-to-Coast Material Science Symposium - Oct. 13-14 Open to all. Oct. 15 open to all faculty only.

Florida A&M – Florida State University College of Engineering and Sandia National Laboratories invite you to a two‑day symposium on Autonomous Laboratory Ecosystems, October 12 (9am-2:30pm) – October 13 (9am-5pm) at Interdisciplinary Research and Commercialization Building (IRCB) Room 1040 in Innovation Park. The program brings together AI, autonomous experimentation, digital assurance, advanced characterization, and agile manufacturing to accelerate materials discovery and high‑performance systems as new tends in material science.

Day 1-2 Expect keynotes , technical talks, presentations from Nvidia, panels, and a student poster showcase from Sandia interns/MSE department, across the following tracks: AI in self‑driving labs; digital assurance & cyber infrastructure; advanced materials characterization; agile/advanced manufacturing & robotics; and high‑performance computing & digital engineering. Students and Faculty are welcome!

Day 3 Faculty only. All FAMU and FSU engineering faculty welcome.

FSU Discovery Days: Quantum Connections Event 

Are you curious about how quantum science and technology may shape future technologies? Whether you're interested in physics, chemistry, engineering, computer science, mathematics, or simply want to learn about one of today's most exciting research frontiers, we invite you to join us for Quantum Discovery Days.

Part of FSU’s annual Discovery Days, this event is designed to introduce students to the wide range of quantum research taking place across FSU and FAMU while helping interested students connect with potential research opportunities.

Why should you attend? 

• Learn about quantum research: Hear accessible talks from faculty working on quantum computing, quantum materials, quantum sensing, photonics, and quantum information.
• Meet researchers: Talk with faculty, graduate students, and researchers working at the forefront of quantum science.
• Explore research opportunities: Meet faculty who are actively looking for undergraduate researchers and learn how to get involved in research.
• See student research: Browse posters and speak with current student researchers about their experiences.
• Free pizza: Because even quantum mechanics is easier to understand with pizza.

Event Details:

• Event: Quantum Connections, part of FSU Discovery Days
• Date: Oct. 20
• Time:1 p.m. 
• Location: Chemical Sciences Laboratory

No prior background in quantum mechanics is required—just bring your curiosity!

To view the full schedule of events and learn more about Discovery Days, go here.  

Register for FSU’s Fourth Annual Discovery Challenge

Pitch Competition
3 - 5 p.m. | Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026
Herbert Wertheim College of Business, Brian & Renee Murphy Forum

A live, Shark Tank-style pitch competition where top startups with FSU technology compete for up to $100,000 in cash prizes during Discovery Days!

Don’t miss out on your spot today!

Register now!

Survey: Need Undergraduates' Input, please.

Do you identify as a student with disabilities? Are you a current undergraduate engineering student? And are you at least 18 years old? If you answered “yes” to all these questions, you are invited to participate in a research study conducted by the University of Georgia!

The purpose of this study is to understand the experiences of students with disabilities in engineering internships and co-ops. Participants are asked to complete a ~10-minute survey through QuestionPro. Participation in this study is voluntary, and Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval was granted by the University of Georgia to conduct this research. Your organization is receiving this message because you have been identified as a program with participants eligible to participate.

To complete the survey, please click here.

Respond by November 1st to be entered in a raffle to win a $50 Tango gift card (redeemable for your choice of gift cards from hundreds of popular brands). 20 winners will be randomly selected!

\If you have any questions about this research, you may contact Dr. Rachel Figard via email at rachel.figard@uga.edu. 

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Chima Umeaku
Ph.D. student, Engineering Education Transformations Institute
College of Engineering | University of Georgia

CBE Virtual Graduate Information Session – October 15

FSU-ORNL Undergraduate Research Opportunity

For summer internships at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory 
Deadline to Apply: October 15, 2026 | Download flyer here.

Program Mission. Florida State University (FSU) is one of eight core university partners to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) – one of the largest national research facilities in the world. The URO program, offered for the 2nd consecutive year, aims to strengthen the FSU-ORNL connections and expose FSU undergraduate students to the unique research environment and tools available on the national lab site.

Eligibility. The applicant must be a current FSU undergraduate student with good standing in the program.

Students who are graduating in 2027 are not eligible to apply. Nevertheless, there are other programs through which ORNL internships can be pursued. Those opportunities can be found at education.ornl.gov.

Internship Summary. Every summer, the ORNL site hosts interns from all over the nation to conduct cutting-edge research in energy-related sciences and other fields. A limited number of students will be sponsored jointly through the FSU-ORNL URO program, which will run for 10 weeks, from May 25 to July 30, 2027. ORNL’s Office of Research Education will ensure that the FSU students selected through these URO programs are matched with mentors and receive internship funding.

Financial Support. The award will provide a stipend of $1,000 per week and cover a round trip to ORNL. Interns will have to cover their housing and subsistence from the stipend they receive.

Relationship to Other Programs. If you explore education.ornl.gov and other web sites, you will find that interns can come to ORNL through several programs. Applying to FSU-ORNL URO does not preclude you from applying directly to other internship offerings, but if selected for the URO program, you will need to choose, so that we can use the funding for another student if you have already obtained a position. 

How to Apply:

Create a single PDF file that contains the following elements:

Step 1 – Prepare: For all students, regardless of whether applying through the education.ornl.gov portal or through this FSU-ORNL URO program, an application is stronger if you have a good idea of what topics interest you, and especially if you have gotten the interest of an ORNL scientist/mentor. 

To begin, use the Mentor Catalogue at www.chem.fsu.edu/qist/ornl-mentor-catalog.html, to explore the mentors who are seeking interns for the summer. Use Narrow the List tool to find researchers that match your major and interests. Pay attention to restrictions on citizenship. Then peruse the descriptions of the mentors and their research and create a list of researchers with whom you would like to meet.

Step 2 – Apply: Submit your application at https://fsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ahsMuRt8bPknnlY. The application will require the following elements (prepare them ahead of time):

• A resume (2 pages max.) 

• A personal statement (2 pages max.) 

• An unofficial undergrad. transcript

Step 3 – Virtual Internship Fair: The students awarded the internship will be invited to schedule a virtual meeting with the potential mentors for the week of Nov 16-20, to finalize their internship assignments.

The fellowship recipients will be announced by October 31, 2026.

Any questions about the program can be directed to Dr. Michael Shatruk at mshatruk@fsu.edu.

Invitation to Register: ASEMFL Annual Meeting 2026, November 6-7, 2026, Tampa, FL

I invite you to join us for the 2026 Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida (ASEMFL) Annual Meeting, taking place November 6-7, 2026, at the University of South Florida in Tampa.

Please register and join Florida's leading scientists, engineers, physicians, educators, policymakers, and industry leaders. 

Register Now Here. 

Event Details ASEMFL Annual Meeting: Advancing Resilience for Florida's Future
November 6-7, 2026
Marshall Student Center
University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida   

This year's theme, Advancing Resilience for Florida's Future, brings together nationally recognized experts addressing some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping our state.  

Day One Highlights Include: 

• Innovation for Florida's Aging Population: Explore how digital health, smart home technologies, and community-based research are transforming independent living for older adults.   
• AI Cross-Disciplinary Interactions: Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming scientific research, healthcare, communication, and decision-making across disciplines through presentations from nationally recognized AI experts.  
• Special Keynote: Dr. Monica Bertagnolli: President of the National Academy of Medicine and former NIH Director, Dr. Bertagnolli will present the urgent need for a national Learning Health System and  why the time for incremental change is over.  
• Plenary Presentation: The Neurobiology of Trustworthy Communication: Dr. Nina Schor, neuroscientist, will share how fear and mistrust emanate from brain neural networks and neurologically how emotionally-focused communication (including human stories) increases trust. 

Day Two Highlights include:  

• Agriculture: Resilience and Innovation: Agriculture is Florida’s second-largest industry producing over 300 commodities on mostly “family farms”. Hear from leaders in farming, research, and agricultural technology as they discuss the status of Florida agriculture, challenges, emerging technologies, and the industry's role in ensuring a secure food supply while maintaining economic viability, environmental stewardship and domestic tranquility 
• Recovery of Critical Minerals: Learn how Florida’s phosphogypsum deposits, normally a fertilizer byproduct, are being transformed into domestic sources of rare earths and mining minerals from plants is happening.  Experts will examine Florida's potential to strengthen domestic supply chains through these innovations.  
• How Upstream Factors Jeopardize American Health: Nationally recognized public health scholars will examine how systemic, upstream factors and public policies directly jeopardize the health of Americans and explore strategic policy reforms designed to build a healthier Florida and nation by addressing the root drivers of well-being. 
• The Florida Semiconductor Engine: Learn how Florida is strengthening America's trusted semiconductor supply chain and creating opportunities in defense, space, healthcare, workforce development, and advanced manufacturing.  

These discussions bring together science, engineering, medicine, public policy, and industry in ways that reflect ASEMFL's unique mission and statewide impact.  

Looking forward to seeing you at the ASEMFL Annual Meeting, November 6-7 in Tampa, Florida.

Five New HHMI Competitions Offering Generous Research Support for Students

Beginning this fall, the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), the largest private biomedical research organization in the United States, is opening five competitions for biological and biomedical scientists across career stages – starting with the Gilliam Fellows competition for 2nd- and 3rd-year PhD students August 31.

We know that talented scientists are everywhere, and this year we want to do everything we can to ensure our programs reach as many potential applicants as possible, including at institutions where HHMI hasn’t historically had a strong presence.

Below are the competition open and close dates and details for each program that you can pass along to your faculty colleagues, postdocs, and PhD students. We also have a digital poster you can download here with information about all five programs.

• September 1 – October 27, 2026: Gilliam Fellows competition for 2nd- and 3rd-year PhD students
• November 3 – December 15, 2026: Combined competition for Freeman Hrabowski Scholars (early career faculty) and Hanna Gray Fellows (postdocs) open to postdocs and faculty at eligible institutions with up to seven years of experience since doctoral degree or transition to independence
• November 10 – December 17, 2026: Cech Fellows competition for rising undergraduate juniors and seniors to perform summer research in an HHMI lab
• September 28, 2027 – March 7, 2028: HHMI Investigator competition for any tenured or tenure-track faculty at an eligible institution with at least seven years' experience leading an independent lab and a current grant. No upper career stage limit.

HHMI Science Programs

Team Spirit Trick or Treat at Engineering, Friday, October 30, 2026

Team Spirit Trick or Treat is Friday, October 30, 2026. 

• Student Services – B111 
• CCS – A332
• Dean’s Office, Ms. Thomas – B206
• IME – A244
• ECE - A341
• CEE - A129
• Library - A225

Special thanks to CBE, ME and the Graduate Office for donating candy and supporting this event! 🏈 🍬🎃

2nd ORNL Neutron Nexus Workshop: Engineering Materials, Nov. 16-17

Happening

• Libraries: For information about office hours, upcoming library workshops, and other announcements, please check out the News & Events page of our FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Research Guide.
   
• Lunchtime Food Trucks will be at the Shaw Building's picnic area on the corner of East Paul Dirac Drive and Pottsdamer Street starting at 11:00 am. Lunch truck tentative schedule here.
   
• COE Cafe: Full-service hours: 7:30am-3:00pm, M-F  ​​| Self-checkout only after 3:00pm and weekends. | Menu

CBE VIRTUAL Grad Info Session, October 15, 2026, 11A, RSVP by 10/14 (Shelly Leparulo)

Glittering Science, October 21, 2026, 6:30P-8P, IRCB 1030+Atrium (Shearer)

Quantum Information Seminar- Speaker: Kourosh Shoele, October 23, 2026,12:00pm - 1:00pm, IRCB 1030 (W. Guo)

Preparing Tomorrow's Workforce: Fireside Chat, October 23, 2026, 6:00pm-9:00pm, Challenger Learning Center (Jacobs)

FAMU Homecoming StrikeZone Tailgate, October 24, 2026, 11:00am-3:00pm, Gibbs Hall

Engineering Team Spirit Trick or Treat, October 30, 2026, COE | Check here for the list of participating departments! (Amwake)

Fall Back! Daylight Savings Time Begins, November 1, 2026

Veterans’ Day, November 11, 2026, No Classes, College closed

Quantum Information Seminar Series- Speaker: Xianjing Zhou, November 13, 2026, 12-1P, IRCB 1030 (W. Guo)

2nd ORNL Neutron Nexus Workshop: Engineering Materials, November 16-17, 2026, TBD, IRCB 1030 (Mao, Meier)

Civil Senior Design Day, November 20, 2026, 9A-2P, TBD

FSU Homecoming Game, November 21, 2026

Thanksgiving Day, November 25-27, 2026, No Classes, College closed

Launch, Order of the Engineer Ring Ceremony, December 1, 2026, 6:00pm-8:00pm, A atrium (Roddenberry)

Take a Paws, December 3, 2026, 1:30pm-3:30pm, COE Bus Stop Courtyard (Amwake)

Ph.D. Hooding and Celebration, December 10, 2026, 2:00pm-4:00pm, TBD (Evans)

Fall Commencements, December 11-12, 2026

Quantum Information Seminar Series- Speaker: Tian Li, November 13, 2026, 12-1P, IRCB 1030 (W. Guo)

Bookmark college events webpage. 

Welcome New Faculty Fall 2026

CHEMICAL & BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING

Tridip Das – Assistant Professor, Ph.D., Michigan State University
• Computational materials design for energy storage, catalysis, and sustainable manufacturing, accelerated by machine learning.

Aaliyah Dookhith – Assistant Professor (Starts Spring 2027), Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin
• Polymer chemistry, fracture mechanics, polymer mechanochemistry, soft matter, polymer processing, dynamic covalent chemistry.

CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING

Chungkuk Jin – Assistant Professor, Ph.D., Texas A&M University
• Fluid-structure interaction, marine renewable energy, marine infrastructure hydro-elasticity, digital twin, machine learning.

Xiuming Sun – Research Faculty I, Ph.D., Kiel University, Germany
• Water quality, hydrology, coastal and estuarine systems, nutrient dynamics, harmful algal blooms, and the impacts of extreme events.

ELECTRICAL & COMPUTER ENGINEERING

Dennis Agnew, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Ph.D., University of Florida
• Software-defined networking, tactical networks, smart grid communications, cybersecurity

Wenda Feng, Ph.D., Assistant Faculty, Ph.D., University of Wisconsin–Madison
• Multiphysics modeling, design, and testing of high power density electrical machines and drives for traction, marine, and aerospace applications, and high-performance power electronics for data center applications.

Janne Hall, Ph.D., Teaching Faculty II, Ph.D., Jackson State University
• Cyber protection for critical infrastructures, Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and SCADA systems, Online/virtual laboratory models for engineering education

Tian Li, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Ph.D., 
• Quantum optics and networks: Atomic vapor- and squeezed state-based quantum optics; system-level design, validation, and deployment of metro-scale fiber-optic quantum networks; high-precision network synchronization for distributed quantum systems; machine learning-assisted quantum communication channel control; one-way all-photonic quantum repeaters.

Mikhail Shalaev, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Ph.D., Duke University
• Metamaterials, photonics, optics, nonlinear optics, electromagnetics, nanophotonics, optics and photonics.

Xinze Li, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Ph.D., Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
• Next-generation AI for power electronics technologies

INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING

Ali Abdelhafiz  – Assistant Professor, Ph.D., Georgia Institute of Technology
• Accelerated materials discovery, high-throughput non-equilibrium synthesis, extreme surface and interface engineering.

MECHANICAL & AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Mario Carvajal – Teaching Faculty, Ph.D., Florida State University
• Fractal-based material modeling, physical reservoir computers.

Paul Davidson – Assistant Professor, Ph.D., University of Michigan
• Design and manufacturing, material, mechanics, durability and damage tolerance.

Xianjing Zhou, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Ph.D., Nanjing University
• Solid-state quantum computing and information platform: single-electron qubits on noble gas (solid neon, liquid helium), superconducting qubits, hybrid quantum circuits; single-electron spin spectroscopy, single microwave photon detection; terahertz electronics with high-temperature superconductors.

Opportunities for Undergraduates

Cybersecurity Labs + ReliaQuest Practitioners Offer Hands-On Experience

Cybersecurity Labs will pair engineering students with ReliaQuest practitioners for four hands-on lab sessions and a graduation day. You’ll work in GreyMatter, ReliaQuest’s proprietary Agentic AI security operations platform, on work that reflects what our teams do every day. Run onsite at ReliaQuest headquarters in Tampa, this immersive experience is open to FSU and FAMU students during Spring Break 2027. 

Choose your track: Security Operations or Software Engineering. 

Application Deadline: November 1, 2026, 11:59 PM EST

FSU-ORNL Undergraduate Research Opportunity

FSU-ORNL Undergraduate Research Opportunity (FSU-ORNL URO) for summer internships at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Deadline to Apply: October 15, 2026 | Apply here.

Download the flyer here.

Any questions about the program can be directed to Dr. Michael Shatruk at mshatruk@fsu.edu.

Knack: Student Helping Students Succeed

Students looking for additional assistance outside of the classroom can access free peer tutoring on Knack. Those who have performed well can get paid to tutor their pears. To get started, visit famu-fsu.joinknack.com and sign in with your student account. 

• Free for all FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Students
• Tutors who excelled o your course
• Meet online or in person
• Flexible scheduling
• Support when you need it

Click here to download the orientation flyer for the MOST information.

Jobs Opportunities

The Boeing Team is Hiring!

Click the graphics below to download the flyers for more information and how to connect with the Boeing team.

D-Wave Florida Position Open

D-Wave is currently hiring for a Senior Solutions Architect role to support the FAQT. The job description can be found here. If you are interested, please submit your resume by applying here.

These are a few other technical roles that we have open in Florida:

• Research Technician III [581]
• Service Engineer II, USHQ [579]
• Team Lead, USHQ Lab Operations [580]
   

Allison Schwartz
SVP, Global Government 
Relations & Public Affairs 
E: aschwartz@dwavesys.com
P: 703.989.9991 
www.dwavesys.com

Scholarships + Internships

Search for both FAMU and FSU scholarships online here.

Scholarship opportunity: NobleReach Scholars Program

Next cycle of applications for the NobleReach Scholars Program is open to February and August 2027 cohorts. You can read the frequently asked questions here and find quick facts below. Your graduation date from your program would need to be from December 2023-December 2026.

As you know, The NobleReach Scholars program is a one-year, full-time, paid fellowship placing emerging tech/business talent into federal, state, or local government agencies.

The NobleReach Scholars are recent graduates in the domains of AI, Computing/Cybersecurity, Business Process Innovation or Materials/Manufacturing, and use their skills to make an impact for the public good. 

Most Scholars earn $70,000–$90,000, plus a one-time $18,000 stipend. As addition to their full-time position, they attend a 2-week booth camp, quarterly personal/professional development sessions in DC and receive mentorship throughout the program.

Applications for our February 2027 cohort are open till October 14, 2026.

Applications for our August 2027 cohort will open on September 30, 2026, and close in early December 2026.

The 2027 FOSSI Scholarship Application is Open!

The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) has opened their application period.  Students entering college at an HBCU in Fall 2027 with approved STEM majors are eligible for a $40,000 scholarship. Top majors include Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Chemistry. Please feel free to share this with your networks and to contact FOSSI with any questions.

The Application Deadline is January 8, 2027. A direct link to the application can be found HERE.

2027 Magnetic Momentum Scholars Program

The MagLab is planning to welcome our 6th cohort of FAMU students to participate in our 2027Magnetic Momentum Scholars Program! This partnership between the MagLab and Florida A&M University was designed to expose a select group of FAMU STEM scholars to career paths in MagLab related STEM fields. Download the flyer here.

To learn more and to apply, undergraduate FAMU students can visit the following link https://fsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0dij0dfwLXhQwui.

FYI ONLY: 2027 Summer Internship Opportunity - Corning Incorporated, Wilmington NC

Apply directly on Corning's website:

Plant Technology Intern - Summer 2027 Job Details | Corning

Applications close on October 16th!

Environmental Management Scholarship Program for STEM Students: Now Accepting Applications

EM STARS Scholarship Program

Apply Now!
Deadline: November 1, 2026 | 11:59 PM EST
Application Link: EM STARS Application

The EM STARS program provides undergraduate students at qualifying institutions with opportunities to engage in research and operations in critical STEM areas, including:

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cybersecurity
• Deactivation & Decommissioning
• Machine Learning
• Robotics
• Soil & Groundwater
• Tank Waste

Why Should You Apply?

As an EM STARS participant, you’ll receive:

• Financial Support: Tuition allowance of up to $36,000 per academic year (adjusted based on actual tuition costs) and a stipend of $32,000 per academic year.
• Paid Summer Internships: 10-week internships with accomplished mentors at EM headquarters, field offices, or DOE national laboratories.
• Networking Opportunities: Engage with the EM community, including field sites, contractors, stakeholders, and other STARS participants.
• Career Development: Continued academic and career guidance, along with potential employment opportunities with EM after graduation.

What Will You Do?

The EM STARS program supports your academic journey, from undergraduate studies to a potential master’s degree. Summer internships will immerse you in EM’s mission, functions, and operations, giving you hands-on experience in your chosen research areas.

Upon graduation, you’ll be well-prepared to contribute to EM’s mission and pursue career opportunities within DOE.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be a U.S. citizen at the time of application.
• Be 18 years of age by June 1, 2027.
• Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Be enrolled as an undergraduate student at a qualifying institution during the 2026–2027 academic year.
• Have completed at least two years toward an undergraduate degree by the start of the internship and be graduating between May 2029 – December 2029.
• Be pursuing a STEM degree that supports EM research and operations.

For detailed eligibility requirements, visit the opportunity announcement.

How to Apply

Complete application details and required materials can be found at the EM STARS Application.

Deadlines:

• Applications: Due November 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST
• Recommendations: Due November 8, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST

Attend an EM STARS Information Session!

• Friday, October 9 from 12-1:15pm ET: Register here

Attend an EM STARS Application Workshop!

• Friday, September 25 from 12-1:30pm ET: Register here
• Friday, October 23 from 12-1:30pm ET: Register here

DOE’s Office of Science is now Accepting Applications for Graduate Student Research Awards

Students will perform graduate theses research at U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratories

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science announced today that the Office of Science Graduate Student Research (SCGSR) program is now accepting applications for the 2026 solicitation 2. Applications are due on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET. 

SCGSR application assistance workshops will be held October 1, 2026, 2:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m. ET. The first workshop will provide a general overview of the program and application requirements. It will also include time for attendees to discuss their potential research topics and their alignment with the SCGSR priority areas with managers of each participating program office. The second workshop will guide attendees through the application process, answer general questions, provide guidance on proposal writing, and feature discussions with scientists and former awardees. Additionally, the program manager will host virtual office hours every Friday 1:00–2:00 p.m. ET starting on September 4, 2026 via this Zoom link.

The SCGSR program provides supplemental awards to outstanding U.S. graduate students for conducting part of their graduate thesis research at a DOE National Laboratory in collaboration with a DOE National Laboratory scientist. The goal of the program is to prepare graduate students for scientific and technical careers critically important to the mission of DOE’s Office of Science. The research opportunity will advance the graduate students’ overall graduate theses while providing access to the expertise, resources, and capabilities available at the host DOE National Laboratories. In addition, SCGSR awardees may have the opportunity for short international research visits to select prestigious centers to broaden their horizons.

Since its inception in 2014, the SCGSR program has provided support to over 1,400 graduate awardees from 175 U.S. universities to conduct thesis research at all 17 DOE National Laboratories across the nation. Areas of research include but are not limited to: physics, chemistry, materials science, planetary science, geosciences, biosciences (non-medical), fusion science and engineering, mathematics, computer and computational sciences, engineering, microelectronics, quantum information science, and artificial intelligence.

The SCGSR program is sponsored and managed by the Office of Science’s Office of Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists, in collaboration with the Office of Science’s six research program offices and the DOE Isotope R&D and Production Office, as well as the DOE National Laboratories/facilities. Program administration support is provided by the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education. 

More information on the SCGSR program can be found by visiting the SCGSR program website or by emailing the SCGSR team.

R&D Laboratory Intern — Battery Cell Engineering

On-site, hands-on lab role · Supervised by full-time technical staff · Tallahassee, FL · Paid, part-time · Variable duration

Piersica is a battery technology company developing next-generation lithium cells — from custom electrode and electrolyte chemistries through to working coin and pouch cells. Our interns work shoulder-to-shoulder with our scientists and technicians in the lab, building real cells, running characterization, and generating the data that drives our development. It is a fast-paced, detail-driven environment where careful hands and accurate records matter.

What you'll do

• Cell assembly — build lithium coin cells and multi-layer (full) pouch cells using our in-house separators and electrolytes, then iterate and re-build as designs evolve.
• Electrode preparation — laminate anodes and cathodes and assist with electrode tape casting and slurry preparation.
• Metrology & data tracking — measure electrode thickness with calipers and mass on a balance, calculate target compaction densities, and log all values into tracking spreadsheets.
• Materials characterization — run tests such as four-point-probe electronic-conductivity measurements on finished electrodes and report results.
• Glovebox & sensitive-materials handling — work inside an inert-atmosphere glovebox, transfer moisture-sensitive materials, monitor lithium-metal exposure, and keep the glovebox clean and organized.
• Equipment operation — operate and care for lab equipment including the calendering machine and mixers, following protocols that protect the tooling.
• Sample handling & documentation — seal and store moisture-sensitive samples, support sample purification, and document work through process photos/videos, daily plans, and weekly reports.

What we're looking for

• Pursuing or recently completed a degree in chemistry, chemical, materials, or mechanical engineering, or a related technical field. Strong candidates at the early stage are welcome.
• Comfortable with precise, repetitive, hands-on bench work and meticulous measurement.
• Excellent attention to detail and disciplined lab-safety and housekeeping habits.
• Able to record data accurately and work confidently in spreadsheets (e.g., Excel).
• Reliable and punctual, able to follow standard operating procedures exactly and work under direct supervision of a full-time team member.
• Clear written communication for daily task plans and weekly progress reports.

Nice to have

• Prior hands-on experience building coin or pouch cells or working in a glovebox.
• Familiarity with battery materials — cathodes, anodes, electrolytes and separators.
• Experience with characterization or metrology tools (four-point probe, calipers, balances).

Working environment & how to apply

• This is an on-site laboratory internship with structured daily planning and weekly reporting; instruction and training are provided directly by full-time staff.

To apply, send a resume and a short note about your lab experience to hi@piersica.com.

ORNL Opportunities | A Newsletter of Internships​​​​​ and Jobs for New Graduates: October 2026

ORNL offers internships at the undergraduate, recent​ graduate, and graduate

levels. Most undergraduates participate in fixed term internships that take place over the summer, fall, or spring academic terms.

All application links, as well as current information on webinars, requirements,
deadlines, and other dates, are always available within the ORE pages found at ornl.gov/education.

William Jenks | Core Universities Student Programs Lead, Office of Research Education, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, jenksws@ornl.gov  |  515-451-4711

New LEED Training Workshops - Fall Webinars

Kick off the school year by becoming one of the first LEED v5 Green Associate professionals! While LEED is best known as the premier scorecard used to rate Green Buildings, individuals can also become LEED accredited to demonstrate their certified expertise in sustainability to employers.

Our workshops go beyond simply passing the test, they give you a strong, practical understanding of sustainable building to apply in the real world.

• Be LEED v5 Ready: Our training has been extensively updated for the newly released LEED v5 rating system, requirements, and exam format.
• Open to All: Students from any major can participate with no prior experience required.
• Comprehensive Support: Get a study guide, 400 updated v5 practice questions, class recordings, and on-demand assistance from our LEED AP+ staff.
• Trusted Provider: LeadingGreen has prepared over 18,000 candidates pass their exams on the first try
• Career-Boosting: This industry-recognized credential opens doors in architecture, engineering, construction, consulting, real estate, and more.

Training Options (Live Webinars or On-Demand):

• October 24 2026 – 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM EDT
• November 21 2026 – 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM EST
• December 19 2026 – 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM EST   - OR -
• On-demand recordings completed at your own pace

All five options cover identical content - pick whichever suits your schedule.

Register for a live webinar or start learning today here.

Cost: $200 with the coupon code GREEN for $100 off! (Non-students $300)

Please contact Lorne directly at info@leadinggreen.com with any questions.

Jobs and Professional Development - TBA

Need to Know

Parking at Engineering campus

Construction on campus has reduced available parking.

Please do not park in any assigned or reserved space anywhere on the College of Engineering campus, including Building A, Building B, and all surrounding lots. These spaces are reserved for the dean, associate deans, and department chairs.

This applies to all students, faculty, and staff. Vehicles parked in assigned spaces without authorization may be ticketed.

You can find overflow parking around Innovation Park, including the lots adjacent to the Shaw, Morgan and Sliger buildings off Pottsdamer St. across from the Mag Lab and the IRCB off Engineering Way.

Questions about parking can be directed to the Dean’s Office at 850-410-6161.

Building C Construction - Updates Here

For the latest information on Building C construction updates, check this page: Campus Construction Updates | FAMU-FSU

Beginning September 14, 2026, a section of Engineering Way located north of FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, along the wooded lot, will close for Building C construction.  This closure will be for the duration of construction.

What’s changing:

• Engineering Way into parking on north and east side of buildings will be closed.
• A section of parking adjacent to College of Engineering Building A will close for construction.
• Alternative parking is available in adjacent lots within Innovation Park.

Deliveries and loading dock access:

College of Engineering staff will still have full access to the loading dock area through the adjacent construction gate. This gate has been sized to allow tractor-trailers room to maneuver for deliveries.

Transportation Re-Routing:

Starting September 14, 2026, the Innovation Route will be detoured due to construction at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. The existing bus stop at the College of Engineering will not be impacted & major delays are not anticipated. Please visit the StarMetro link below to view further information about transportation re-routing related to the closure of Engineering Way.

StarMetro Link: StarMetro Bus Detours and Service Changes | StarMetro

Questions? Contact Justin Walters, Project Manager. Click on the graphic above to download the PDF for a visual representation of the closure and construction area.

Important Travel Advisory: China and Hong Kong Device and Data Risks 

As you prepare for upcoming summer travel, we want to alert you to a significant change in the legal landscape for those planning personal or university-related travel to mainland China or Hong Kong—including those with only a layover at Hong Kong International Airport. 

On March 23, 2026, Hong Kong updated its National Security Law. It is now a criminal offense to refuse a request from law enforcement to provide passwords or decryption assistance for your electronic devices (phones, laptops, tablets, etc.). Authorities also have expanded powers to seize and keep any device they believe is linked to national security concerns. 

This applies to all devices in an individual’s possession, including personal devices and university‑issued equipment and applies to all individuals, including U.S. citizens who are visiting, arriving or transiting through Hong Kong.  

To protect your personal privacy and university data, we strongly advise the following: 

• Process Travel via Concur: All university-related travel must be processed through Concur. If a trip is at “no cost” to the university, please be sure to complete a no-cost travel request in the system. This ensures the university can provide support and maintain an accurate travel registry.
• Leave FSU devices at home: Do not take University-issued laptops, phones, or other electronic devices into mainland China or Hong Kong.
• Prepare for searches: Assume that personal devices may be searched or seized in these areas. If you are asked to provide a password, local law requires you to comply; refusal can result in criminal penalties, including fines and jail time.
• Evaluate your risk: If you have travel planned for these areas, please carefully weigh these risks against your personal and professional needs. 

We encourage you to review the latest U.S. State Department Travel Advisory and the U.S. Consulate Security Alert for more details. 

If your FSU device is searched, seized, or accessed by authorities during your travel, please notify the Information Security and Privacy Office (ISPO) at security@fsu.edu or (850) 644-4357 as soon as possible. 

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our community and data safe. 

A Message from FAMU DPS: How to Respond to Bomb Threats

In light of recent swatting calls related to bomb threats, the FAMU Department of Public Safety is sharing the following checklist for your awareness. This quick reference checklist is designed to help employees and decision makers respond to a bomb threat in an orderly and controlled manner with the first responders and other stakeholders.

A bomb threat is defined as a communication made through mail, e-mail, telephone, telegram, or another instrument of commerce that willfully conveys a threat or maliciously provides false information known to be untrue. The communication may concern an attempt, actual or threatened, to kill, injure, or intimidate an individual, or to unlawfully damage or destroy any building, vehicle, or other real or personal property by means of an explosive.

Please review the tips below and download a copy of the checklist for your records. Thank you for your support to keep our campus community informed and safe. If you have any questions or concerns, please email Audrey Alexander. 

Download the Bomb Threat Procedures and Bomb Threat Checklist here.

–Chief Audrey Alexander, FAMU Department of Public Safety

REMINDER: COE Parking Regulations & Motorcycle/Scooter Parking

In order to provide the safest environment possible, Parking Services and FSUPD issue parking citations and/or tow vehicles which are not properly parked at the College of Engineering (vehicles must be legally parked in an appropriate space). This includes those vehicles which are parked in the grass, in no-parking areas, next to red or yellow painted curbs, those that have jumped a curb, or those that park in hashed-out spaces. Vehicles illegally parked in reserved spaces will be immediately ticketed/towed at the owner's expense.
 
REMEMBER: Parking is never allowed on the grass (vehicles must be legally parked in an appropriate space). See the parking map here.

Motorcycle and scooter parking: There is very limited space for motorcycles and scooters at the COE. In the A Bldg. lot, there is a small area reserved for motorcycles and scooters. There is no motorcycle/scooter parking in the B Bldg. lot. Motorcycles and scooters also cannot park on walkways, in handicap spaces, or in regular parking spaces at the COE. Those that park anywhere at the COE other than the designated location in the A Bldg. lot will be in violation of university parking regulations and may be ticketed. Motorcycles and scooters can park in the overflow lot (yay!).

Additional spaces are available in the overflow lot between the B parking lot and the AME building. This lot extends to the end of Innovation Park (it’s huge! See the map here). 

Don’t forget, students/faculty/staff can take the bus to and from the College, FAMU, and FSU for free with a valid University ID. Carpooling and Biking are also great! 

Pedestrians, please look up from your phones before stepping out into the street when leaving the building. We hope that everyone can come and go safely from the college.

Find FSU Resources at response.fsu.edu

We hope you are having a fantastic summer and are finding ways to beat the heat. Whether new to FSU or returning to campus, we want you to know that your FSU community is always here for you. The resources listed below are available to help support your well-being, and we encourage you to reach out as you see fit. Thank you for showing kindness and support of one another.

To access important resources and updates, visit: RESPONSE.FSU.EDU

Engineering Our Future

We identified five strategic priorities to focus on for the next five years. For each of these priorities, we set goals with identified metrics for our college: 

Keep up with the plan here.

Good to Know

AI at FSU: New Guidelines & Training

To help you keep pace with the evolving technology of artificial intelligence (AI), the AI@FSU website features a range of resources. The website was designed to support the FSU community in the effective and ethical use of AI technologies for teaching, learning, research, and workflow. You’ll find free AI literacy training for all students.

AI Training for Students

FSU ACE Learning Studio

FSU's Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) is a university learning center, focused on helping students develop the study skills and success habits needed in a large research university. Check back here for the calendar of for topics, dates and times.

Knack: Student Helping Students Succeed

Students looking for additional assistance outside of the classroom can access free peer tutoring on Knack. Those who have performed well can get paid to tutor their pears. To get started, visit famu-fsu.joinknack.com and sign in with your student account.

• Free for all FAMU-FSU CoEng Students
• Tutors who excelled o your course
• Meet online or in person
• Flexible scheduling
• Support when you need it

Click here to download the orientation flyer for the MOST information.

FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Career Services Liaisons

Engineering Career Services Website here.

FAMU - Sean Collins - sean.collins@famu.edu, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Sr. Career Specialist, Career Services Liaison at FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Office A143.

FSU - Tiffany Lueng Career Liaison for the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Office: College of Engineering A141, tleung@fsu.edu | (850) 645-0446

 Need to Know

Reminder: Stay Alert for Phishing Attempts

Florida State University is reminding faculty, staff and students to remain alert for phishing and social engineering attempts. Threat actors often send messages or texts that appear to come from trusted organizations or university IT, using urgent language about security updates, account issues, service interruptions or other routine matters to trick recipients into taking action.

These messages may attempt to trick users into:

• Clicking malicious links or visiting fake login pages
• Entering credentials or approving Duo/MFA requests
• Downloading harmful attachments

Please remain vigilant. Do not click links or provide credentials in response to unexpected messages, even if they appear related to this event. Always access services through official, trusted websites, such as fsu.edu.

For tips on how to protect yourself, visit https://its.fsu.edu/cybersecurity/protect-yourself/phishing. If you receive a suspicious email, report it immediately using the university’s phishing reporting process, abuse@fsu.edu.

Campus Safety Updates & Emergency Preparedness Information

At Florida State University, the safety and security of everyone on campus remains our top priority. The university uses a comprehensive, multi-layered approach to campus safety, integrating a top-notch campus police department, advanced technology, robust emergency management protocols, and dedicated security personnel. These coordinated efforts are designed to protect students, faculty, staff, and visitors alike, ensuring a secure environment that supports learning and collaboration. 

As we begin the fall semester, we'd like to take the opportunity to introduce you to some new technology tools and resources, reiterate the various means by which FSU supports the campus community during emergencies, and encourage you to review emergency preparedness materials. 

CAMPUS SECURITY ENHANCEMENTS

As is the case every summer, the university has been diligently working on campus enhancements. This fall, you will see new technology tools, such as panic buttons and lockdown buttons, installed in academic spaces throughout campus.  

• Panic Buttons: These are blue in color and are silent alert buttons that send a direct alert to the FSU Police Department’s dispatch center. Use these in emergencies involving active assailant threats. When activated, they trigger immediate police dispatch. Remember to also physically lock the room where the panic button is being activated.

• Lockdown Buttons: These are yellow in color and marked “Lockdown.” When activated, doors are automatically locked, and FSU Police are immediately dispatched to the building. No one from outside the room can enter except FSU Police. 

• Door Locks: Doors to academic spaces that are not equipped with centrally managed electronic locks have thumb-turn or push-button locking systems. 

All of these new enhancements comply with university guidelines, ADA standards and building codes.

Our University Communications team collaborated closely with Public Safety to create an educational video that will teach you when and how to use these tools properly.

We encourage everyone to check classrooms, offices, and other university facilities at the start of each semester to know what technology is available in each location. DO NOT push panic or lockdown buttons to test them.  

WATCH: How to USE Door Locks and Lockdown/Panic Buttons in Classrooms

In addition to these security enhancements, you will see an increased security presence at the Student Union. Throughout the semester, FSU Police officers also will hold office hours at the Union. Times and dates will be announced.

FSU ALERT 

FSU ALERT is the official emergency notification and warning system of Florida State University. In the event of a situation or condition, occurring or imminent, that poses an immediate threat to the health, safety, or general welfare of students, faculty, staff or visitors to the university, an FSU ALERT will be issued. The FSU ALERT emergency notification system uses multiple methods for disseminating emergency information, including email, text messages, alerts.fsu.edu and social media.

Learn more about FSU AERTS

WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY 

Having a well-defined plan is essential for ensuring safety and achieving positive outcomes in the event of an emergency. We recommend that you review our Emergency Preparedness Guide and develop a personal emergency plan. In addition, FSU has Emergency Action Guides for many of the potential hazards we face in Florida and at FSU. Each guide provides protective action steps and best practices on how to respond to an emergency situation, including hurricanes, tornadoes and active threats. 

• Emergency Preparedness Guide
• Emergency Action Guides 

ACTIVE THREAT TRAINING 

The FSU Police Department will continue to offer Active Threat Training this fall, and participation is strongly encouraged. This training provides information and skills for responding during an active threat situation by understanding and applying the Run, Hide, Fight strategy.   

• Upcoming dates for faculty/staff trainings are Aug. 26, Sept. 2, Sept. 9, Sept. 16 and Sept. 30. To register, visit hr.fsu.edu. 

• You may also watch this short video to become familiar with the fundamental principles of the Run, Hide, Fight strategy or watch a recorded training session.
  • WATCH: FSU Run, Hide, Fight video
  • WATCH: Active Threat Training video

We appreciate your commitment to fostering a safe and resilient campus environment. By staying informed, participating in available trainings, and familiarizing yourself with the resources and protocols provided, you will help ensure that Florida State University remains a place where everyone can thrive. As a reminder, mental health and resiliency resources are available for all students, faculty and staff anytime, anywhere. Visit response.fsu.edu to check out support tools and resources. 

Thank you for your ongoing support and vigilance. We wish you all a successful and secure semester ahead. 

Things to Do

Challenger Learning Center of Tallahassee

Hollywood Movies at the IMAX | Call (850) 645-7796 to Buy Tickets

Student tickets are $11. Check out all the new movies now playing, here.

Resources

Engineering Career Services
Virtual and F2F advising hours here.

FAMU Academics
Links to academic info, student services, student life and more.

FSU Student Academic Resources
Links to academic info, official university announcements and public health information.

College & University Academic Calendars

FAMU-FSU Engineering Academic Calendar & Deadlines 

FAMU Official University Academic Calendar

FSU Academic Calendar

Online Scholarship Search

FAMU Scholarships 
FSU Scholarships

In Case of Emergencies 

Call 9-1-1. If you have concerns about your safety while on the engineering campus, call FSU Police 850-644-1234.

The Engineering Library Circulation Desk

Hours are: Monday - Friday – 8am to 5pm | (850) 410-6328 | A225 & A248

College Lost and Found

Student Services in B111 is the college lost and found location. If you've found something, drop it off here and if you've lost something, check here first!

Need a Mental Health Break? 

Welcome to the Breakroom, B226-H, which is available for one person at a time, from 9:00 am - 4:50 pm on normal business days. Reserve a 50-minute slot using this link.

FAMU Office of Counseling Services located at 1735 Wahnish Way Suite 304 (CASS Building), provides a professional, safe atmosphere where students can discuss academic and personal issues. Schedule an appointment to talk to someone: (850) 599-3145 or counseling@famu.edu. For after-hours assistance, call BetterMynd for FREE at (844) 287-6963. In case of emergency, call FAMU Police Department at (850) 599-3256 or dial 911

FSU Counseling & Psychological Services is fully committed to the health and wellness of our students. We are offering Telemental Health Services (through zoom), in-person services, and Telephonic Crisis Support to students. Call us at 850-644-TALK (8255) to talk to a clinician today. Check online for more information.

Want to add something to the next issue?

Email us! Deadline is Wednesday for Monday publication.