Jesse Roberts, a graduate student in the Department of Chemical Engineering, has been awarded a scholarship from the Science, Mathematics, And Research for Transformation (SMART) Defense Education Program.  The program was established by the U.S. Department of Defense to support undergraduates and graduate students in fields related to science, technology engineering and math.

The scholarship will cover Roberts' tuition and other costs while he pursues his doctorate. Roberts' dissertation will focus on peptoids, molecules that are designed in the lab for specific biomedical purposes. Roberts is studying the use of these molecules to help patients grow new brain cells. This therapy could help people suffering from many conditions including stroke, traumatic brain injury and Alzheimer's disease.

As part of the scholarship program, Roberts will spend his summers as an intern at the Army Corps of Engineers Research and Development Center in Vicksburg, Mississippi. The program's website explains that it, "aims to increase the number of civilian scientists and engineers working at DoD laboratories," and that "students are also provided opportunities to continue their research in DoD civil service roles following graduation."

"I'm very proud of Jesse for pursuing and earning this prestigious award," said Shannon Servoss, associate professor of chemical engineering and Roberts' advisor. "This will open many doors for him and lead to a successful career for a very deserving student."