Thompson Announces $4.6 Million Grant for Penn State, Advances Discovery of New Materials

BELLEFONTE, Pa. – Today, U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15) announced a $4.6 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant for Penn State University to increase access to high-tech tools and laboratories for materials discovery and innovation.

The funding will develop Penn State’s NSF 2D Crystal Consortium Materials Innovation Platform (2DCC-MIP) into a self-sustaining model to expand its work with U.S. industry.

“I am pleased to announce that Penn State will receive $4.6 million to continue developing semiconductors and quantum technologies,” Rep. Thompson said. “This funding reaffirms the university’s commitment to excellence and will drive cutting edge technologies forward."

"Penn State appreciates Congressman Thompson's continued leadership in supporting groundbreaking research that delivers meaningful benefits to Pennsylvania and beyond," said Josh Robinson, director of Penn State's Materials Research Institute. "This funding recognizes the exceptional team led by Joan Redwing, whose years of expertise in two-dimensional materials have positioned the 2D Crystal Consortium for this important next phase. Investments like this from the federal government will help establish the 2D Crystal Consortium as a sustainable national resource, accelerating semiconductor research and advancing U.S. priorities in 2D materials and next-generation technologies.”

The grant will be awarded over four years, transitioning the facility to rely on user fees to ensure it remains a national resource for many years to come.

Penn State’s 2DCC is one of only four MIPs in the United States, and has received funding from the NSF since its inception 10 years ago.