CCR Action Network to Enrich Graduate Education

- Meeting Minutes -

Leaders:
Tim Anderson, University of Florida
Kelly O. Sullivan, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Charles W. Manke, Wayne State University
Jim Hill, Iowa State University

The success of the research enterprise depends on the quality of the education of those who enter it. New ideas and knowledge generated by scientific and engineering research would not be possible if people were not educated to apply them appropriately and to keep the knowledge base growing. Research and education are inextricably linked, since the research experience is a critical factor in the training of scientists and engineers. A strong, creative scientific workforce powers our nation’s innovation engine.

The US boasts the world’s leading scientific education system, but competition is growing. CCR is dedicated to enriching graduate education in the US through exposure to cross-discipline research and perspectives from government and industry. Our objective is to teach graduate students the importance of working within an interdisciplinary, team-oriented framework and the dynamics of non-academic enterprises. The result: improved career opportunities for graduates and better prepared employees in all sectors.

To implement this goal, CCR volunteers from industry, government, and academia work collaboratively to provide opportunities for graduate students and educators to gain interdisciplinary and sector perspectives.
 

Recent and On-going Activities:
Graduate Education Guidance – CCR maintains a website on graduate programs in chemical engineering to assist students in preparing to enter this field. Included are testimonials from past graduates and the impact of the education on their careers.
Project Leaders: Ignacio Grossmann, Carnegie Mellon University and Tim Anderson, University of Florida

Sabbaticals/Internships – CCR is creating a web-based clearinghouse of opportunities for professors and students to gain experience with CCR’s industrial and government laboratory members.
Project Leader: Pat Andreozzi, Dow Chemical Company

Curriculum Integration – CCR is organizing a workshop to coordinate graduate curricula in chemistry and chemical engineering.
Project Leader: Tim Anderson, University of Florida

Surplus Equipment Clearinghouse – CCR is establishing a webbased clearinghouse of "excess" industrial equipment that is available to universities.
Project Leader: Al Sattelberger, Los Alamos National Laboratory

Discovery Channel – CCR endorses the Discovery Channel/Master of Science program that communicates exciting new discoveries to prospective students and the public.
Project Leader: John Sears, Montana State University

Professional Competency – CCR collaborates with the Industrial Research Institute’s University Relations Committee on various activities aimed at enhancing leadership competencies of research faculty, especially in multi-investigator and interdisciplinary research projects.
Project Leader: Tim Anderson, University of Florida

CCR Postdoc Website – CCR is adding a web page to discuss issues and resources of importance to those considering postdoctoral studies.
Project Leader Rommie Amaro, University of Illinois

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