Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Materials Research Institute! Our mission is to serve society by performing advanced research, shaping new policies, and educating future generations to be science-literate. Our Institute seamlessly integrates research, education, and global networking into its programs, products and services.

Our current research activities include the development of ultra-thin materials for flat-panel displays, flexible organic solar cells for renewable energy, nano-photonic circuits for ultra high-speed communications equipment, and new materials for NASA space missions, to mention only a few.

The MRI is committed to offering top-notch educational opportunities and improving the quality of science and technology education. Our groundbreaking Materials World Modules (MWM) program brings together Northwestern faculty and science teachers to develop cutting-edge instructional content for college and pre-college students. This year, the Institute will establish a National Center for Learning and Teaching in Nanoscale Science and Engineering (NCLT) that will change how STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are taught nationwide through content development, learning research, teacher professional development, and degree programs.

Finally, we believe that international cooperation is vitally important to the advancement of knowledge and the equitable sharing of its benefits. Therefore, the Institute organizes a variety of networking activities (workshops, conferences, advanced studies institutes, special events, etc.), designed to promote global collaborations in materials research, technology and education and further develop the Materials World Network (MWN).

Please visit this site often to learn more about our activities and events or write us at mri@northwestern.edu. We look forward to hearing from you.

Best wishes,