The MU Materials Science & Engineering Institute (MUMSEI) brings together interdisciplinary collaborators focused on materials science and engineering research and education.

Mizzou Engineering researchers work with faculty from the NextGen Precision Health electron microscopy core, chemistry, physics, biology and other sciences at Mizzou to investigate the design and application of high-performing materials through machine learning, atomistic simulations and other emerging technologies using cutting-edge facilities.

MUMSEI fosters collaboration in existing and new areas, including biomaterials, energy materials, quantum materials and materials-at-extremes. By uniting the sciences and engineering at Mizzou, the institute will create new opportunities for joint projects and funding proposals.

Additionally, affiliated faculty develop new interdisciplinary academic programs such as certificates and graduate degrees in materials science and engineering to prepare students to work and research in these areas.

The institute is co-led by Matt Maschmann, an associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering, and Carlos Wexler, a professor of physics in the College of Arts and Science. In the future, federal or other materials-related centers could fall under the umbrella of the institute.

Background

The MU Materials Science & Engineering Institute was founded in 2021 to serve as the hub of multidisciplinary research in materials in the College of Engineering and College of Arts and Science. The objective of the institute is to establish nationally recognized academic and research programs in materials disciplines to respond to national areas of need and to expand the impact of University of Missouri researchers. The institute hosts faculty from 10 academic departments who are affiliated with initiatives at the NextGen Precision Health Institute, MU Research Reactor and more. The Materials Characterization and Fabrication (MCF) Facility was established in 2021 to provide cutting-edge resources for institute researchers and external partners.