The consortium participants are Universidad Ana G Méndez-Gurabo (lead), Universidad de Puerto Rico-Mayaguez, University of Texas-El Paso, University of New Mexico- Albuquerque, Sandia National Laboratory (SNL), the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL).  

 

Project Objectives

• Provide research and educational experiences to minority students  by  continuing  and improving  the  consortium  programs.
• Increase  interaction between partners and between partners and national laboratories.
• Encourage MSI students to excel in science, technology, engineering and math by providing them with practical experience and training through project capacity building and learning experience.
• Enlarge scientific, technical knowledge and resource base in the topics of resilient energy (engineering).

 

Program Outcomes: 

• Increase the number of students that perform research at all levels of participating institutions by 5% in a five-year period.
• Increase the research products (paper, presentations) of MSI students from partners by 5% in a five-year period).
• Develop online courses related to field.
• Increase the number of students participating in internships/direct hires at the National Laboratories by 10% in a five-year period.
• Increase the number of faculty members that work in/with the National Laboratories by 10% in a five-year period.
• Increase the number of technical visits from the National Laboratories to partner academic institutions by 10% in a five-year period.
• Increase the number of MSI students obtain practical experiences in engineering topics by 5%in a five-year period.
• Increase number of students hired into engineering careers related to NNSA/DOE by 5% in a five-year period.  
• Impact and secondary schools’ student to create interest in STEM fields.
• Implement strategies that will increase enthusiasm of potential students into STEM fields.
• Increase the number of extracurricular and innovative activities focused on resilient energy systems topics, such as summer internships, summer camps, tours and energy day to attract and retain students.
• Offer research and work opportunities related to STEM field that will benefit current students by continuing to motivate them on completing their academic path.
• Arrange outreach and networking strategies directed to attract new students.
• Provide career placement opportunities for students.
• Provide opportunities for students to work at National Laboratories and partnering institutions.

 

Apply for this program (High School Energy Summer Camp 2025) before Sunday, March 30, 2025.

 

Date: Mondays through Friday from June 2 to June 27, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Four (4) weeks’ summer bridge program that will emphasize the development of competencies in energy systems with emphasis in resiliency and the challenges presented by human needs in the 21st century.  Students will have the opportunity of competing in the Engithlon Surviving Mode challenge.  There will be a prize for the team of students that develop the best idea to solve an energy related problem.

 

The application process is now open for 9th to 12th grade students. To apply click here (see Requirements and Application documents below).

Benefits

• Prepare student for university work.
• Exposition to formal courses (curricular component), seminars and workshops (Computer Programming, Digital Control (Arduino), Energy Analysis, Wind Energy and Photovoltaics).

• Competition Participation: Engithlon Surviving Mode

• The best idea from the energy area will be chosen

• Award and certificate for the best idea

* No cost

 

Requirements

• Be a student in good standing (students are not required to study engineering but should have an interest in sciences or engineering).

• GPA (grade point average) of at least 2.50 / 4.0 ("por lo menos 2.50 de promedio acumulativo").

• Must complete 6 hours, Monday through Friday during the internship from June (2) to June (27) (4 weeks = 19 days).

• Attend all courses and seminars and be on-time and participative.

• Prepare presentations in one topic of energy based on literature research.

• Be an U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

(Continued support is subjected to performance evaluations.)

 

Application

1. Fill out the 1-page application form here.

2. Write a 1-page essay (must be in English, no less than 250 and no more than 500 words) discussing why do you want to participate in the High School Energy Summer Camp 2025, what do you expect to gain out of the experience, and how the experience will help you attain your academic goals and career plans.

3. Copy of last Official transcripts (GPA evidence). You may submit the unofficial or official transcript to May 2025 and/or December 2024.

4. Parents need to sign authorization for the student’s participation.

5. Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Attach one of the following: birth certificate, passport and/or naturalization certificate (if foreign national).

6. Complete the Application for Admission for the creation of a special student ID.

7. Complete the Application for Admission and the Relay of Photos, Videos, Others .

 

Submit PDF files of these documents, via the web application.
Documents and application must be submitted no later than Sunday, March 30, 2025.

 

Submit any questions to Mrs. Gloribel Rivera at: glrivera@uagm.edu or Mrs. Darlene Muñoz at: damunoz@uagm.edu.

 

 

Summer Research Internship Program

Apply for the Summer Research Internship Program before Sunday, April 20, 2025.

Benefits:

• Participate in cutting-edge research.
• Participate in technical and professional skills seminars.
• Develop professional network.
• Students will receive a stipend.

Requirements:

• Be a student in good standing.
• Be an active student at the undergraduate and/or graduate level.
• GPA of 3.00/4.00.
• Work under the direction and supervision of a faculty researcher.
• Work at least 15 hours per week undergraduate students in research activities as instructed by the research professor (6 weeks).
• Work at least 20 hours per week graduate students in research activities as instructed by the research professor (6 weeks).Prepare and submit a final presentation and a paper report.
• Attend seminars as requested.
• Present research results.
• Be an U.S. citizen or permanent resident. (Continued support is subjected to performance evaluations.)

Application:

1. Fill out the 1-page application form here.
2. Copy of unofficial transcripts.
3. Copy of officialized enrollment.
4. 1-page CV/Resume
5. References (2) from professors (include names and contact email).
6. Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Attach one of the following: birth certificate, passport and/or naturalization certificate (if foreign national).

Submit any questions to Mrs. Gloribel Rivera at: glrivera@uagm.edu or Mrs. Darlene Muñoz at: damunoz@uagm.edu.
Submit PDF or JPEG files of these documents, via the web application.

Documents and application must be submitted no later than Sunday, April 20, 2025.

Universidad Ana G. Méndez Recinto de Gurabo

Project 1: Mechanical and Electrical Enhancements for Improving the Power Generation of an Axial Flux Generator for a Small-Scale Wind Turbine.
Mentor: Professor Albert A. Espinoza, Mechanical Engineering
Description: This project focuses on completing the development of a small-scale wind turbine by completing a series of mechanical and electrical improvements to the design already being manufactured at UAGM-Gurabo. In addition to completing the manufacturing of the wind turbine, the team will be conducting a series of mechanical, aerodynamic, and electrical tests to characterize the power generation and safety capabilities of the wind turbine. The data gathered from these studies will be used to validate an integrated wind turbine axial flux generator design methodology proposed by the researchers. Additionally, the team also aims to improve upon the current manufacturing limitations of creating low-cost wind turbine generator prototypes from scratch and without specialized equipment.
Preferred student qualifications: Mechanical or Electrical Engineering student, Knowledge of MATLAB/Simulink, SolidWorks, and Mechanical Design Methodology, Machine shop experience and 3D printing experience preferred, but not required.

Project 2: Exploring the Power Generation of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines in Puerto Rico and Their Integration in Residences or Emergency Use.
Mentor: Professor Daniel E. Mera Romo, PhD - Electrical Engineering
Description: After hurricane maria hit Puerto Rico, many people were affected and others died because they were unable to power up their vital medical equipment. This situation let people struggle with many difficulties in their life, such as losing their food, devices running out of battery. The goal of this project is to design and build a Portable Power Station that can be used to store energy obtained from gusts of wind with Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) and Solar Panels. These gusts of wind will be harvested from vehicle traffic in urban areas. This project includes the integration of the system into Puerto Rico family residences. The energy will be used in order to power vital devices such as traffic lights, public lighting, lightbulbs, medical devices (example: nebulizers), fridges, phone charges or critical parts of the housing. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your talents and engineering skills by designing, building and putting into operation this device.
Preferred student qualifications: Aimed at electrical engineering students who have taken circuit and electronics classes and laboratories. Programming skills are preferred. You need to be proactive and eager to learn.

Project 3: Implementation and Testing of a Proposed Micro Wind Turbine Control System with Monitoring Capability has been selected for funding under the CHRES Year Long Research Program.
Mentor: Professor Diego A. Aponte Roa, PhD - Electrical Engineering
Description: The demand for renewable energy has increased in recent years, including the market for micro wind turbines. However, low-cost products lack a proper control system and advanced features. This project aims to test and optimize a previously designed Low-Cost Micro Wind Turbine Control System with Monitoring and Braking Capabilities using off-the-shelf components. The major challenge addressed in this work is to include all the control electronics in a single PCB to generate a plug & play board. In addition, the real time monitoring system requires being accurate and reliable. To achieve these goals, different testing experiments will validate the proposed control architecture and monitoring system.
Preferred student qualifications: The ideal candidate should be an Electrical or Computer Engineering Student with knowledge in Python, SQL, and C++ (Arduino microcontroller). Basic knowledge in electronics and PCB design is also desired.

Project 4: Pole Foundation/Soil Interaction, Lateral Support and Breakaway Connectors to Mitigate Electrical Blackouts Because of a High Category Hurricane.
Mentor: Professor Hermes E. Calderon, PhD - Civil Engineering
Description: Hurricanes Irma and Maria exposed the Puerto Rico's energy system vulnerabilities, with Maria causing a complete blackout. The Grid Modernization Plan revealed that the energy distribution system was not designed for Category 4 hurricanes, requiring extensive repairs. This project aims to provide alternatives to enhance the resilience of Puerto Rico's electrical distribution network against Category 5 hurricanes by studying pole foundation/soil interaction, lateral support, and breakaway connectors. Undergraduate students will use different analysis tools to model load conditions on distribution poles. The findings will inform recommendations for strengthening poles, and promoting a resilient electrical system. Collaboration with local research institutions will provide students with valuable research experience and contribute to resilient energy systems in Puerto Rico.
Preferred student qualifications:(Non-strict) Student with interest in structures. Problem solver, team oriented with good communication skills and commitment to research (time and energy to the project).

Project 5: Zn-Ion Batteries for Enhanced Energy Storage with Electrodeposition Techniques and Additive-Driven Dendrite Control.
Mentor: Professor Joshua Reyes Morales, PhD - Chemistry
Description: Energy storage is essential for ensuring grid stability and integrating renewable energy sources, particularly in regions with vulnerable infrastructure like Puerto Rico. Zn-ion batteries offer a promising alternative to Li-ion technology due to their abundance, lower cost, safety, and environmental benefits. However, challenges such as limited cycle life and dendrite formation hinder their commercialization. This project focuses on addressing these limitations by developing a Zn-ion battery system with enhanced performance and longevity. The research will explore strategies to control zinc deposition, suppress dendrite formation, and improve charge transfer kinetics at the electrodes. By leveraging advanced electrochemical techniques for electrode modification and electrolyte optimization, this study aims to enhance the efficiency, stability, and scalability of Zn-ion batteries. These advancements will contribute to a more resilient and cost-effective energy storage solution, particularly for grid-level applications in regions facing energy insecurity.
Preferred student qualifications: Knowledge in natural sciences or at least a strong interest in learning in this area is required. Additionally, knowledge of or interest in electrochemical measurements for battery research is desirable.

Project 6: Evaluation of Flood Mitigation System.
Mentor: Professor Luz E. Torres, PhD - Civil Engineering
Description: Project evaluation will focus on structural and nonstructural flood mitigation to change the traditional Methodology to mitigation used for decades. The project has two pillars of evaluation and design. The evaluation pillar will be realized through the assessment of research materials, the feasibility of the uses, and other components nonstructural. A particular advantage of nonstructural measures when compared to structural measures is the ability of nonstructural measures to be sustainable over the long term with minimal costs for operation, maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, and replacement.
Preferred student qualifications: Civil Engineering student.

Project 7: Implementation of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning models for monitoring photovoltaic microgrids based on residential roofs in specific areas of Puerto Rico.
Mentor: Professor Miguel A. Goenaga Jimenez, PhD - Electrical Engineering
Description: This project aims to develop and implement an intelligent monitoring and management system for photovoltaic micro grids installed on residential rooftops in Puerto Rican communities. Over a one-year period, advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models will be integrated to optimize real-time energy performance, efficiently manage energy storage and consumption, and predict solar generation based on changing weather conditions. The system will begin with data collection and analysis, structuring at least 12 months of historical and real-time energy data to identify seasonal and consumption patterns. AI and ML models will then be developed to forecast photovoltaic energy production and residential energy demand with an accuracy of at least 85%. A real-time monitoring system will be implemented, providing predictive insights and automatic energy management recommendations through an interactive interface. Finally, the system’s accuracy and effectiveness will be evaluated through a validation process, comparing predictions with actual data and making iterative improvements to enhance performance. This initiative will strengthen energy autonomy, reduce reliance on conventional energy sources, and provide a replicable model for other communities in Puerto Rico, promoting a more resilient and sustainable energy framework.
Preferred student qualifications: To develop an intelligent monitoring system for photovoltaic microgrids, students must have skills in programming, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML), using tools such as Python, Tensor Flow, MatLab, and Scikit-Learn. They should also manage databases (SQL, NoSQL) and data analysis techniques to structure and process energy information. Understanding photovoltaic systems, including solar panels, inverters, and batteries, is essential, as well as using IoT sensors for real-time monitoring. Additionally, students must apply statistical methods and predictive models to optimize energy efficiency and improve system resilience. Research and problem-solving skills are crucial for analyzing data, designing experiments, and validating models. Project management, teamwork, and technical communication are also necessary for documenting results and presenting progress. Finally, proficiency in data visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau, and Matplotlib) and graphical interface design will facilitate system interaction. With these skills, students will be able to develop a replicable model that contributes to energy autonomy and sustainability in Puerto Rico.

Summer Exchange Program Projects 2025

Apply for the Summer Exchange Program before Sunday, April 20, 2025.

Benefits:

• Participate in cutting-edge research.
• Participate in technical and professional skills seminars.
• Develop professional network.
• Students will receive a stipend.

Requirements:

• Be a student in good standing.
• Be an active student at the undergraduate and/or graduate level.
• GPA of 3.00/4.00.
• Work under the direction and supervision of a faculty researcher.
• 8 weeks -The hours of dedication to research vary according to the university institution and will be informed in the letter of acceptance.
• Prepare and submit a final presentation and a paper report.
• Attend seminars as requested.
• Present research results.
• Be an U.S. citizen or permanent resident. (Continued support is subjected to performance evaluations.)

Application:

1. Fill out the 1-page application form here.
2. Copy of unofficial transcripts.
3. Copy of officialized enrollment.
4. 1-page CV/Resume
5. References (2) from professors (include names and contact email).
6. Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Attach one of the following: birth certificate, passport and/or naturalization certificate (if foreign national).

Submit any questions to Mrs. Gloribel Rivera at: glrivera@uagm.edu or Mrs. Darlene Muñoz at: damunoz@uagm.edu.
Submit PDF or JPEG files of these documents, via the web application.

Documents and application must be submitted no later than Sunday, April 20, 2025.

University of Texas-El Paso, Texas (UTEP)

Project 1: 3D printing of ceramic composites for aerospace applications.
Mentor: Dr. Yirong Lin
Description: This project will focus on the design of the fixture to enable the additive manufacturing of continuous fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites (CMC) to significantly improve the fracture toughness. Continuous fibers such as carbon fiber will be incorporated into ceramic slurries such as ZrB2 and SiC for direct ink write 3D printing of CMC. After printing, the post-processing including curing and sintering will be designed by modeling and simulation to guide the process to minimize defects such as cracks and voids. Material characterization tools such as scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermal conductivity, and load frame will be used to reveal material properties of interest.
Preferred skills: We prefer students with Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry background.

Project 2: Comparative study of copper, nickel, and platinum on boron doped diamond electrode for ammonia oxidation reaction.
Mentors: Dr. Carlos Cabrera and Graduate Student Abayomi Omoogun.

Project 3: Exploring cerium oxide doping in iron-nickel layered double hydroxides (LDHs) for enhanced seawater splitting for hydrogen production.
Mentors: Dr. Carlos Cabrera and Graduate Student Suzatra Chatterjee
Description: This project aims to synthesise cerium oxide-doped Ni-Fe LDHs and thoroughly evaluate their structural, electronic, and electrochemical properties. The study will investigate the fundamental interactions between Cl⁻ ions, cerium, and the LDH framework during seawater splitting. Detailed insights into these interactions will be obtained through advanced characterisation and operando studies, leading to the development of a scalable and efficient electrocatalyst for direct seawater electrolysis and green hydrogen production.
Preferred skills: knowledge or electrochemistry but not required.

Project 4: Determining the Amount of Energy Stored in the Temporary Shape State of Additively Manufactured Shape Memory Polymer Specimens.
Mentor: Dr. David Roberson.
Description: The proposed work will build upon a previous study but use materials switching temperatures on the order of 120C that have also been developed at UTEP and are well characterized. The blends studied will be those composed of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and styrene ethylene butylene styrene (SEBS). The study will continue to explore the potential application of 4-D manufacturing in energy storage devices by evaluating the energy dynamics and recovery efficiency of shape memory polymers, thereby contributing to the advancement of innovative energy storage solutions.
Preferred skills: 3D printing, CAD (SolidWorks), knowledge of materials characterization techniques.

Project 5: 3D printing of flexible and stretchable batteries for wearable applications.
Mentors: Dr. Ana C. Martinez and Dr. Alexis Maurel.
Description: This project will focus on designing specialized TPU=based inks for one or several components of a classical battery. The inks will be optimized for smooth extrusion, layer adhesion and ion transport, ensuring the formation of a high-performance Na-ion battery. The printing process will involve depositing the anode, electrolyte, and cathode layers sequentially onto a flexible substrate, creating a conformable battery structure. The electrochemical performance of the printed batteries will be evaluated through charge-discharge cycling and rate capability tests.
Preferred skills: Knowledge of material sciences, electrochemistry, or additive manufacturing. Prior experience with 3D printing, ink formulation, or polymer process. Familiarity with electrochemical techniques.

University of New Mexico – Albuquerque, New Mexico

Project 1: TOPIC: Cyber Resilience of Energy Systems Using Real Time Digital Simulation.
Mentor: Professor Ali Bidram (Electrical and Computer Engineering Department).
Student Major/Level: Mechanical Engineer, Computer Engineer or Electrical Engineer, Junior, Senior or Graduate student level

Project 2: TOPIC: Energy Harvesting: Developing increased frequency bandwidth of kinetic energy harvesting devices. The work will focus on designing (CAD) of a novel proof mass, developing the proof mass, and experimental validation of the concept using a piezoelectric cantilever energy harvester.
Mentor: Professor Nathan Jackson. (Mechanical Engineering Department)
Student Major/Level: Mechanical, Electrical Engineer with CAD experience.

Project 3: TOPIC: Thermal Radiation Analysis in Ceramic Coatings for Advanced Gas Turbine Engines.
Mentor: Professor George Koutsakis (Mechanical Engineering Department)
Student Major/Level: Mechanical, Electrical Engineer. Junior, Senior or graduate student level.

Project 4: TOPIC: Characterization of Quantum Dots for High Performance Solar Cells.
Mentor: Professor Ganesh Balakrishnan. (Electrical & Computer Engineering Department)
Student Major/Level: Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical Engineer, Physics. Senior or Graduate student level.

Project 5: TOPIC: Hybrid Energy Systems for Remote Wireless Sensors.
Mentor: Professor Fernando Moreu (Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering Department, joint appointment in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering)
Student Major/Level: Electrical, Mechanical, Civil Engineer. Senior or Graduate student level

Project 6: TOPIC: Development of Materials for Solar Cells.
Mentors: Professor Francesca Cavallo (Electrical and Computer Engineering Department) and Research Scientist Emma Renteria (Center for High Technology Materials)
Student Major/Level: Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical Engineers. Junior, Senior or Graduate level who have some experience in Semiconductors.

Project 7: TOPIC: Hydrogen and Fuel cell, batteries and super capacitors.
Mentor: Professor Sakineh Chabi (Mechanical Engineering Department).
Student Major/Level: Mechanical Engineers. Senior or Graduate level.

Universidad de Puerto Rico, Recinto de Mayagüez, PR (UPRM)

Project 1: Dynamic Control of Hybrid Energy Systems for Microgrid Applications.
UPRM Mentors: Eng. Zeeshan Akhtar, Dr. Eduardo Ortiz-Rivera & Dr. Erick Aponte-Bezares
Description: The Consortium of Hybrid Resilient Energy Systems (CHRES) offers an exciting opportunity for a student to research and review related to the dynamic control of Hybrid Energy Systems for Microgrid Applications. This project is open to students pursuing bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. degrees at one of the CHRES partner academic institutions (UTEP, UAGM, UNM, or UPRM). The following qualifications and expectations apply for summer employment:
Required Qualifications:
• Intermediate knowledge of dynamic state-space representation and its applications.
• Proficiency in MDT, PV Watts, SAM, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, MATLAB, and Simulink at an intermediate level.
• Competence in writing technical reports in English.
• Intermediate knowledge of Power Systems and Power Electronics is essential.
• Availability to work 40 hours per week (8 hours daily), either in-person or remotely.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Ability to work under the supervision of a UPRM CHRES staff member.

Virtual or On-Site (at UPRM) Work Schedule:
The outcomes of this project are expected to include the following deliverables:
1. Two presentations—one focusing on project advancement and the other presenting the final project results.
2. A paper detailing the project, to be co-authored with CHRES staff members.


Project 2: Control of Grid-Forming Inverters using Power Hardware in the Loop (PHIL)
Principal Investigator: Dr. Eduardo I. Ortiz-Rivera
UPRM Mentor: Eng. Zeeshan Akhtar
Description: This project offers a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in the dynamic modeling and simulation of Grid-Forming Inverters (GFMI) using Power Hardware in the Loop (PHIL). The goal is to create and validate these inverters, with the results to be prepared for presentation at peer-reviewed conferences. This experience will not only enhance your academic knowledge but also provide valuable insights into the practical applications of your studies.
Preferred Student Qualifications:
This opportunity is ideal for graduate students or senior undergraduates with experience in dynamic simulations using MATLAB and Simulink, power electronics, and linear control systems theory. The following qualifications and expectations apply for summer employment:
Required Qualifications:
• Intermediate knowledge of dynamic state-space representation and its applications.
• Proficiency in OPAL-RT, Typhoon, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, MATLAB, and Simulink at an intermediate level.
• Competence in writing technical reports in English.
• Intermediate knowledge of Control Systems and Power Electronics is essential.
• Availability to work 40 hours per week (8 hours daily), either in-person or remotely.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Ability to work under the supervision of a UPRM CHRES staff member.

Virtual or On-Site (at UPRM) Work Schedule:
The expected deliverables for this project are:
1. Two presentations—one based on the advanced stages of the project and the other presenting the final project outcomes.
2. A paper developed in collaboration with CHRES staff members.