UTRGV Receives $1.5M NSF Grant

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UTRGV Receives $1.5M NSF Grant

Dr. Timothy Huber (Photo David Pike, UTRGV)
Dr. Timothy Huber (Photo David Pike, UTRGV)

The National Science Foundation Division of Undergraduate Education has awarded UTRGV a $1.5 million grant to support a growing need for well-educated scientists, mathematicians, engineers and technicians.

The UTRGV grant is now active and goes to a five-year project. It will fund scholarships for 60 full-time, first-generation college graduates pursuing a graduate degree in mathematics or physics.

Incoming graduate students can receive up to two years of financial support.

The cohort-based academic support and mentoring provides a model for best practices to cultivate advanced degrees and solid scientific identities among graduates.

Dr. Timothy Huber, professor and director of the UTRGV School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, is principal investigator on the grant. He said the goal is to increase STEM degree completion among low-income, high-achieving undergraduates with a demonstrated financial need.

“The program’s financial and mentoring support will provide a foundation for graduate success in mathematics and physics, the first two units in the College of Sciences starting doctoral programs this year,” Huber said.

Dr. Janna Arney, UTRGV executive vice president and provost, said the grant provides important support for the many students at UTRGV.

“This NSF grant will greatly affect the future of education in the region,” Arney said. “When students want to pursue a higher degree in mathematics and physics, they can look to UTRGV to accomplish those goals close to home.”

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