2020 Year in ReView - Research & Innovation - Prairie View A&M University by PVAMU Research&Innovation

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MESSSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT FY 2020 RESEARCH & INNOVATION — YEAR IN REVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

8 THE VICE PRESIDENT'S NEW INITIATIVES 10

IN THIS

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AND INNOVATION ACCOMPLISHMENTS

ONE TEAM UNDER ONE ROOF I NSPIRED LEADERS. HIGH EXPECTATIONS. EMPOWERED STAFF. EXCELLENT RESULTS.

14 ONE TEAM. ONE DREAM. 16 STRATEGIC FOCUS AREAS 18 CHANCELLOR’S RESEARCH INITIATIVE

32 RESEARCH

NEW VISION, MISSION, AND CORE VALUES FOR GREATER HEIGHTS

Making a Transformational Impact

20 CONFRONTING COVID-19

34 OFFICE OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Excellence in the Spotlight

36 OFFICE OF RESEARCH ADVANCEMENT

A Strategic New Approach to Research Advancement

The RAPID Response of R&I

38 OFFICE OF SPONSORED

UPWARDLY MOBILE

Growing Faculty Research for Student Success

26 RESEARCH & INNOVATION TRAINING INSTITUTE

A Virtual and Vital Breakthrough

27 RESEARCH DATA BLITZ

Weekly Research Bits for Interdisciplinary Collaborations

28 A BRIGHT IDEA ON R&I BRANDING

New Logo, New Motto, & Innovative Branding

29 A SITE TO BEHOLD

Good Looks & Great Reviews for R&I’s New Website

30 ONE TEAM. ONE DREAM

One Strong Team Makes the Dream Real

PROGRAMS

Strengthening Infrastructure

44 OFFICE OF UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH

Supporting Next Generation of Scholars

46 OFFICE OF INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS Anticipates New Opportunities

in the Coming Year

48 OFFICE OF INNOVATION – COMMERCIALIZATION

42 OFFICE OF TITLE III

PROGRAMS

Aligning Sponsored Programs with Strategic Priorities

40 OFFICE OF RESEARCH COMPLIANCE Promoting Safety and

Compliance in Research

50 OFFICE OF INNOVATION – ENTREPRENEURSHIP

52 OFFICE OF INNOVATION –

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

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MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT

I am delighted to share this report, which captures the key initiatives and accomplishments related to research and innovation at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) for the fiscal year 2019–20 (FY20). As I complete my first year as PVAMU’s Vice President for Research and Innovation, I’m especially grateful for people like you — the talented and dedicated members of our community. You continually strive to push boundaries, create knowledge, and elevate our mission to improve lives in service for the greater good. As you will read in the pages ahead, PVAMU faculty, staff, students and alumni have demonstrated remarkable resolve to persevere through the pandemic. I am committed to elevating PVAMU’s research and innovation enterprise to become an emerging research institution. By nurturing a vibrant research and innovation ecosystem at PVAMU and building collaborations and partnerships with external partners, we will elevate, transform and impact our global communities.

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The accomplishments within — driven by our bold researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs — are a testament to PVAMU’s commitment to excellence and relevance in teaching, research and service that address issues and challenges affecting the diverse ethnic and socioeconomic population of Texas and the larger society, including the global arena. The Prairie View A&M University embraces this vision as researchers across campus work together to advance knowledge, solve challenging societal problems, create new products and services that enhance the quality of life, and support students and postdoctoral fellows in research and training. Academic research requires the support of many, including the federal government and industry partners. As a credit to our altruistic staff, innovative faculty, and strong external collaborations, PVAMU has conducted a significant volume of research. As the vice president for research and innovation, I am grateful for the opportunity to work with faculty, staff and students across campus who are driven to impact society for the greater good. Moving forward, the PVAMU Division of Research & Innovation will continue to collaborate with our partners on campus and beyond to catalyze, support and safeguard university research, with the ultimate goal of impacting the world. I’m confident we’ll continue to come together to do great things, and I look forward to using our firm foundation as a foothold for the future. Thank you again for joining us in these efforts.

OUR GLOBAL COMMUNITIES

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WE WILL ELEVATE, TRANSFORM, AND IMPACT

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MAGESH T. RAJAN

Ph.D., P.E., M.B.A. VICE PRESIDENT

RESEARCH & INNOVATION

– Magesh T. Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., M.B.A. Vice President Research & Innovation

PVAMU.edu/research

ONE TEAM UNDER ONE ROOF

FY 2020 RESEARCH & INNOVATION

YEAR IN REVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

STAFF EMPOWERMENT & RECOGNITION

$46.5M

TOTAL SPONSORED AWARDS

14% Increase from FY19

$18.5M

RESTRICTED RESEARCH AWARDS

93% Increase from FY19

$43M

$20.3M

$9.6M

112% Increase

External & Internal

Externally Sponsored 14% Increase from FY19

TOTAL SPONSORED TOTAL RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESEARCH EXPENDITURES EXPENDITURES RESEARCH EXPENDITURES from FY19

RAPID RESPONSE RESEARCH GRANTS

NEW VISION

MISSION

CORE VALUES

FOR GREATER HEIGHTS

NEW OFFICES

+ Research Advancement + Innovation-Commercialization + Innovation-Entrepreneurship + Innovation-Economic Development + Federal and Industry Partnerships

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NEW TRAINING INITIATIVE

29 sessions +1,288 participants

STRENGTHENING RESEARCH CENTERS RAPID RESPONSE TO COVID

NEW BRANDING NEW WEBSITE

impacted

25% Increase in Communication Outlets

89% Increase in Marketing Products

RAPID RESPONSE INNOVATION GRANTS

210

43% Increase in IRB trainings from FY19

60%

67%

Increase in IACUC SOPs reviewed from FY19

FACULTY-RISE RESEARCH GRANTS

GRADUATE RESEARCH STUDENT GRANTS FOR FACULTY

AD-HOC REVIEWERS COORDINATED

Decrease in IBC noncompliance incidents/reports from FY19

$200M

TOTAL AMOUNT OF PROPOSALS SUBMITTED

New Record Surpassing 200 mark 100% increase from FY19

TITLE-III PROGRAM SUPPORTED FOR STRENGTHENING INSTITUTIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE

INNOVATION CAPABILITIES

185

RESEARCH COMPLIANCE TRANSITIONING TO ELECTRONIC PROCESSING

NUMBER OF NEW PROTOCOLS AND AMENDMENTS REVIEWED

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES

FACULTY WERE SUPPORTED FOR PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT

211

New Record Surpassing 200 mark

$8.9M

RDB

NEW COLLABORATION INITIATIVE Over 440 faculty impacted

TOTAL NUMBER OF PROPOSALS SUBMITTED

NEW

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH COUNCIL

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS PROJECTS

STARTUP COMPETITIONS

STUDENT PRESENTED IN UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM

EMERGING STARTUPS

SPONSORED UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH STUDENT PROJECTS

INVENTORS ENTREPRENEURS

THE VICE PRESIDENT'S NEW INITIATIVES

ELEVATING PVAMU RESEARCH & INNOVATION ENTERPRISE

Since assuming office in 2019, Vice President Magesh

T. Rajan has instituted several initiatives that have positively impacted our faculty and students and our campus research community. The vice president’s initiatives tackle challenges and opportunities that require institutional prioritization and broad participation from across the university. The new initiatives aim to strengthen PVAMU’s enterprise

toward knowledge inquiry, scholarly research discoveries

and technology innovation to lift our state’s communities. They also serve to ensure that as a Texas land-grant uni-

versity, we stand as a beacon of inclusion, preparing the next generation of scholars for lives well-lived.

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NEW VISION, MISSION AND CORE VALUES FOR GREATER HEIGHTS Vice President Rajan established a clear vision to elevate PVAMU’s research and innovation enterprise. The vision includes increasing the research and innovation portfolio of PVAMU through increased research expenditures and research visibility. The primary goal is to provide exceptional services to the campus research community to enable more significant knowledge creation, discoveries and innovation that will have a broad impact on society. Vice President Rajan has created a mission for the Division and a detailed mission statement for each of the R&I units that are presented later as you continue to peruse the pages of the Year in ReView.

VISION 2025 The vision for the Division of Research & Innovation is to “Elevate PVAMU to a higher research activity doctoralgranting institution status through nurturing an outstanding culture of support for the research community and growing a vibrant, innovative research community for a broader social and economic impact.”

MISSIONS

Provide support to increase the pursuit of large-scale, sponsored research opportunities, provide strategic and broader grant-seeking services, nurture faculty research activities, and facilitate partnerships with federal agencies and institutions at regional and global levels.

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Support to strengthen university infrastructure by ensuring effective planning, implementation, and management of Title-III programs of high-impact activities. Provide exceptional service in supporting and promoting high-quality mentored undergraduate research, scholarship and creative inquiry in partnership with faculty across broad disciplines. I ncrease the research and innovation enterprise’s visibility by providing exceptional marketing and communication services, infusing bold, creative and impactful content and rigorous digital and social media engagement.

CORE VALUES For a shift toward a positive and productive working culture and for continued progress toward achieving the broader vision and goals, it is critical to have clarity and consistency on the strategic values that the team will uphold. As such, Vice President Rajan instituted six core values in fall 2019 that are stressed and put into practice by the team. The new Core Values for R&I are:

P rovide support for intellectual property development, technology transfers, and commercialization that further fuels the research and innovation enterprise.

Provide exceptional leadership and expertise in sponsored research administration across the entire lifecycle from proposal development and submission through award management and close-out, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

1 EXCELLENCE

Provide exceptional support and service to the campus research community so that PVAMU is compliant with federal, state and system regulations, as well as institutional policies through training, promoting safe and ethical research conduct and instituting research compliance policies.

4 LOYALTY

2 INTEGRITY 3 LEADERSHIP

5 RESPECT 6 SELFLESS SERVICE

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ONE TEAM UNDER ONE ROOF For a long time, multiple units within the Division of R&I have been geographically separated that frequently interact for a variety of operations, however, the geographic separation posed several challenges for the teams’ communication, collaboration and operations. Despite the many perks of using technology, successful leaders know it is most effective when interdependent teams operate under one roof to build a strong, steady culture.

Recognizing challenges with geographical separation as a root cause, Vice President Rajan immediately began unifying the division’s offices by moving the team under one roof. Through conversations and inducements with key stakeholders across the campus and working closely with campus planning, academic colleges, and various R&I offices, he was successful. In January 2020, all Research and Innovation units located across the campus were unified and housed under one roof, in the Wilhelmina Delco Building. To eliminate the communication challenges between units and meet the new and higher expectations, the R&I staff were made aware of how the work done by each area impacts the entire division’s success and, indeed, the university. With this shift, the team immediately began interacting, including informal interactions in common and shared spaces, strengthening working relationships. The better the staff got to know each other, the more connected they felt, people who like each other work better together. Also, by implementing monthly socials that are a combination of professional development and fun activities, the team achieved a level of trust and understanding that had not been present in several years. The goal was to maintain and grow the positive working relationships over the past year into one team under one roof with more possibilities to interact and solidify a positive culture and environment that will reflect the exceptional services expected to be provided to the campus research community.

INSPIRED LEADERS. HIGH EXPECTATIONS. EMPOWERED STAFF. EXCELLENT RESULTS. STAFF EMPOWERMENT Vice President Rajan, immediately upon his arrival, set about inspiring and positively changing the needed cohesive working culture in the Division of Research & Innovation. In addition to ensuring the entire team was under one roof, Vice President Rajan empowered the units with authority and accountability and the expectation to strive for excellence and achieve their set goals. The units’ leadership was encouraged and empowered to push beyond the status quo and boundaries and take ownership of their operations and decisions. Vice President Rajan inspired and instilled a sense that all R&I staff members were leaders in their own right. By empowering unit leaders and staff, the R&I team transitioned to being more confident in their skills and abilities, which is reflected in campus customer service delivery.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Vice President Rajan initiated monthly activities, deemed Monthly Socials, that provided professional development for all staff. The activities included professional personality surveys to determine how the team could create a more collaborative working environment and conflict resolution to resolve ongoing struggles more effectively. He also offered each staff member $1,000 in support of external training to support their current role. The Monthly Socials served to build the set of skills needed for successful teams: increased retention, confidence and credibility, well-trained leadership, re-energized staff and improved efficiency.

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STAFF RECOGNITION

Vice President Rajan initiated an inaugural annual staff recognition awarding event “THE STAR AWARD” for the Division of Research & Innovation staff. STAR is an acronym for “Support To Advance Research.”

MENTORING AND NURTURING The R&I staff mobilized to meet the performance standards. Vice President Rajan set about meeting a one-year goal dedicated to mentoring and nurturing staff to achieve their full potential. Vice President Rajan established a meeting strategy with each leadership team member to determine their strengths and build the areas of challenge. The sometimes months-long mentoring sessions provided the unit leadership with the confidence needed to move the division forward to conquer the seemingly monumental challenges it faced.

“Recognition helps employees recognize that the division and university value them and their contributions to the success of the team and the university. This is particularly important when we change and grow. It helps our staff build a sense of security in their value to the division and university, motivating them to continue great work.” - Vice President Rajan.

MENTORING SESSIONS PROVIDED THE UNIT LEADERSHIP WITH THE THE CONFIDENCE NEEDED TO MOVE THE DIVISION FORWARD

ONE TEAM. ONE DREAM. Over the past few years, the changes and challenges had affected the working culture among different units and created silos of operations that were detrimental to the services provided to the research community. As a result of several interventions deployed by Vice President Rajan, the R&I team has begun functioning under the moniker of “One Team. One Dream.” The interventions, through unifying the entire team under one roof and bringing several working units that are diverse in their roles into one space, there was an immediate removal of the silos that had been a barrier to operating with a singular voice. The monthly gatherings with an element of professional development allowed staff to connect in an informal environment. Working in close proximity and the gatherings gave rise to conversations and connections at the proverbial “watercooler” that were impossible to have while the team was spread geographically across the campus.

Staff recognition was a very timely initiative, as acknowledged by several staff members. Especially when considering the various challenges faced by R&I staff amid several transitions, increased workload due to reduced staffing and the growing research enterprise. The resiliency and commitment to the university’s continuous improvement through customer service and professional growth has been evident in the past year.

The peer recognition was an inclusive nomination that recognized all staff members over the six R&I Core Values. A new Wall of Excellence is installed in the Delco Building to display staff who distinguished themselves in the quest to advance research and innovation. According to the R&I team, the added layer of being recognized publicly for perseverance and “Pushing Forward” was unquestionably a noteworthy morale booster.

INDUSTRY CONTRACTS

+++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ Vice President Rajan initiated three focused areas +++++++++++++++++++ for strategic and enhanced services to the research +++++++++++++++++++ community. The focus areas are growing the research +++++++++++++++++++ portfolio significantly, growing the innovation, com+++++++++++++++++++ mercialization and entrepreneurship enterprise, and +++++++++++++++++++ increasing industrial partnerships for a broad range +++++++++++++++++++ of programs supporting students, faculty and staff. +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++ OFFICE OF RESEARCH ADVANCEMENT +++++++++++++++++++ This year, we have made improving customer service to the research community a top priority. +++++++++++++++++++ To achieve that goal, we have made changes in the way our team operates to ensure the seam+++++++++++++++++++ less delivery of customer service, particularly in developing large grant proposals. Vice President +++++++++++++++++++ Rajan established the Office of Research Advancement (ORA) to advance the research enter+++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ prise by pursuing large-scale, sponsored research opportunities by faculty and staff research-

STRATEGIC FOCUS AREAS

ers. The ORA is dedicated to providing strategic and broader grant-seeking services, nurturing faculty research engagement and advancement activities by facilitating partnerships with federal agencies and institutions at regional and global levels.

INNOVATION-COMMERCIALIZATION-ENTREPRENEURSHIPECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (I-CEED) Division of Research & Innovation is committed to elevating the innovation, commercialization, and entrepreneurship enterprise for more significant economic development and impact on the university, region and the state of Texas. Vice President Rajan established the I-CEED initiative. A team of experts was selected to facilitate the Innovation-Commercialization-Entrepreneurship-Economic Development (I-CEED) endeavors of our faculty, students, and staff in each of the four vectors. I-CEED will fuel the innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem at PVAMU. The reach of I-CEED extends beyond the three PVAMU campuses located in Prairie View, Waller County; Northwest Houston; and Downtown Houston, Harris County, into the Greater Houston Area and the entire State of Texas.

PVAMU has a history of external partnerships with corporations and industries, such as our longstanding relationship with NASA Johnson Space Center. However, industrial partnerships and connections were not consistently developed with a strategic approach. In Fiscal Year 2020, Vice President Rajan established the new area focused on industrial contracts and partnerships and strategically building mutually beneficial partnerships with industries, corporations, startups and entrepreneurs. By dedicating staff and expertise to this space, R&I can expand its support to the research and innovation community-at-large. Several partnerships are being established, such as PAE Applied Technologies, Accenture Federal Services, Collins Aerospace, KBR Incorporated, Raytheon, etc.

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CHANCELLOR'S RESEARCH INITIATIVE:

MAKING A TRANSFORMATIONAL IMPACT The Chancellor’s Research Initiative (CRI) is a funding mechanism provided by the Texas A&M University System’s Chancellor John Sharp to develop state-of-the-art research and research infrastructure across the TAMUS campuses. The CRI aims to recruit leading researchers and support faculty experts and students in conducting breakthrough research. PVAMU has six CRI centers and institutes, and Vice President Rajan provides university-wide oversight for the CRIs in various colleges. 1. | CENTER FOR COMPUTATIONAL SYSTEMS BIOLOGY (CCSB) 2. I NTEGRATED FOOD SECURITY RESEARCH CENTER (IFSRC) 3. M INORITY ACHIEVEMENT, CREATIVITY, AND HIGH ABILITY CENTER (MACH-3) 4. R ADIATION INSTITUTE FOR SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING (RAISE) 5. SECURE CENTER OF EXCELLENCE (SECURE) 6. S MART MICROGRID ADVANCED RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER (SMART)

ACCOMPLISHMENTS Numerous systemic challenges were presented to Vice President Rajan upon his arrival in fall 2020 that impacted the CRI centers and institutes. The key achievements in support of the CRI centers are listed below. • The extended timeline and coordination required for Bio-Safety lab inspection and certification. This challenge has been resolved by streamlining the BL2 inspections with a rapid turnaround for certification status and results.

• Challenges with business processing were presented, including the accessibility of funding accounts, construction delays, staffing, hiring, funding insufficiency and procurement. Vice President Rajan organized and facilitated a series of meetings for each CRI with the CFO, Human Resources, and Procurement and Construction department representatives and resolved many challenges and developed plans for various centers and institutes. • Challenges with administrative support and fiscal monitoring support were presented. A multi-day special training session was organized in collaboration with the Human Resources and Business Affairs offices to provide hands-on training for the CRI directors and the administrative staff. • Challenges with the organizational structure for several CRI centers and institutes were presented; they were resolved with clarity and ownership of the roles and responsibilities.

• Regular meetings with CRI leadership were arranged for the year to ensure the systemic challenges were addressed and to enable the center’s success. Vice President Rajan advocated at the monthly CRI construction meetings with the contracting company for consistent progress. • Provided leadership and support for CRIs to obtain approval from the TAMUS on funding reallocations. Supported the recruitment efforts for several CRIs’ director positions. • Created consistency in the CRI administrative, procurement, fiscal and employment structures and routing pathways and enabled involvement from the academic colleges.

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CONFRONTING COVID-19:

THE RAPID RESPONSE OF R&I

The COVID-19 global pandemic had the potential to completely shut down research at PVAMU. However, R&I was swift in its response ++++++++++++++++++ to the challenges and immediately established a COVID-19 link on its website for researchers ++++++++++++++++++ to provide clear and concise guidance on how ++++++++++++++++++ to safely sustain their projects amid the crisis. ++++++++++++++++++ Under the direction of Vice President Rajan, ++++++++++++++++++ R&I provided a list of Frequently Asked ++++++++++++++++++ Questions (FAQs) that spoke to the ++++++++++++++++++ most sought out concerns. Most ++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++ importantly, they identified conthat could address any ++++++++++++++++++ tacts ongoing concerns during ++++++++++++++++++ this troubling time.

R&I strategically ensured the safe return to research on campus, and after careful contemplation, established two funding opportunities to address the national needs. The VPRI Rapid-Response Grant Program (RAPID) supports research studies to understand and address the current complex national needs and challenges. He also established a RAPID that supports innovative ideas to help faculty, staff and students to develop concepts into tangible products and prototypes that may lead to viable intellectual property. The funding supports advancements in COVID19-related research and race, inequality and social justice issues that are among the grand challenges facing our nation. We are proud of the quality and diversity of the compendium of projects submitted by our researchers. We invite you to view the projects funded with the VPRI RAPID funds for insight into the research implications' breadth and depth.

UPWARDLY MOBILE:

GROWING FACULTY RESEARCH FOR STUDENT SUCCESS

in the early stages and/or shifting their research to a new focus area often need institutional support to develop the research concept and collect preliminary results before pursuing larger competitive external funding opportunities. Recognizing the need for such an infrastructure for the faculty, Vice President Rajan has developed and launched several initiatives this year to support faculty, students and research scholars to advance their research and innovation. The initiatives included support for priority research areas, junior faculty, STEM areas, humanities and social sciences, COVID-19 research and innovation, graduate research fellows, and undergraduate student research.

Race, Inequality, and Social Justice: Studies focused on race inequalities, social justice, recent national events, and activities related to race inequalities; COVID-19 Research: Scientific or technology-oriented non-medical research to address or mitigate COVID-19 risks and related issues; COVID-19 Impact Studies: Research studies focused on understanding the impact of COVID-19 or the resultant economic stress on African-American communities; Interdisciplinary Research: Interdisciplinary topics related to one or more of the major themes listed above. The funded projects and faculty include: • Black Faces in White Spaces: Filling the Diversity Gap in the Design Industry by Creating Pipelines from HBCU Design Programs to Major Corporations and Design Studios through the expansion of the DesignView Media Center Services. Dr. Tracey Moore, Assistant Professor, Art/Digital Media Arts Program, School of Architecture. • Design and Synthesis of Antiviral Plant Product to Treat COVID-19. Dr. Sameh Abdelwahed, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, College of Arts & Sciences • Preservation of Geo-Infrastructure through Remote Monitoring. Dr. Md Jobair Bin Alam, Assistant Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering

VPRI RAPID RESEARCH FUNDING PROGRAM

• Development of Air Quality Indicator to Predict the Concentration of Biogenic Species in Ambient Environment. Dr. Kazeem Olanrewaju, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering

The Rapid-Response Grant Program (RAPID) supports research studies to help understand and address the current complex national needs and challenges. These RAPID grants are generally for a limited timespan and intended to encourage faculty to broaden their research areas or jump-start a new research area. This year the major RAPID research themes included

• Exploring State-Level Variabilities Between Community Resilience and Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Multilevel Modeling Approach. Dr. Yuki Shigemoto, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, College of Juvenile Justice and Psychology

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• Survey on Cyber Security and K through 12 Education. Ms. Natara McNary, Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering • Ethical, Cultural and Humanistic Impact of COVID-19 on Minoritized Communities, Dr. Quincy Moore, Honors Program, and College of Arts & Sciences • The COVID- 19 Pandemic and Rural Communities of Color: Examining the Impact of Race, Healthcare Accessibility, and Health Literacy in Waller County Texas, Dr. Marco Robinson, History/Division of Social Work, Behavioral, and Political Sciences, College of Arts & Sciences • Ecological Human Imprint, Economic, Social and Political Impacts Associated with COVID19. Dr. Safwat Shakir, Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Arts & Sciences • Predicting Structural Changes in SARS-COV-2 Envelope Proteins: A Mathematical Model. Dr. Sumudu Kalubowila, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, College of Arts & Sciences, Dr. Victoria Mgbemena, Assistant Professor/Co-PI, Department of Biology, College of Arts & Sciences

• Thermal Management of Electrospun Nanofiber in a Facemask to Improve Everyday Life Against COVID-19, Dr. Nabila Shamim, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering

• Developing Innovative Data Analysis Tools in Experimental Combustion for Research and Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Dr. Yuhao Xu, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering

• Online/Hybrid Manufacturing Processes Laboratory in Cope with COVID-19 Pandemic, Dr. Lai Jiang, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering

VPRI RAPID INNOVATION FUNDING PROGRAM The Rapid-Response Grant Program (RAPID) supports innovative ideas to help faculty, staff, and students to develop their ideas into tangible products and prototypes that will lead to viable intellectual property. Like the research grants, these RAPID-Innovation grants are generally for a limited time and aim to encourage faculty to jump-start an innovative project. Funding provided to innovate, design, develop or commercialize physical or software products and processes. The funded projects and faculty include, • Semi-Supervised Deep Learning for Effective COVID-19 Classification on Medical Images, Dr. Xishuang Dong, Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering • 3D Multiscale Structures with Optimized Properties for Engineering/Medical applications, Dr. Jaejong Park, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering

• Virtual Reality/Mixed Reality: A COVID-19 Response to Chemical Engineering Laboratory, Dr. Keisha C.A. Antoine, Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering

• Prediction Model Building to Forecast the Trend of COVID-19 and Unemployment Factor for Socioeconomic Status. Dr. Yoonsung Jung, Department of Mathematics, College of Arts & Sciences

• Will Faculty Survive? The Effects of COVID19 on the Mental Health and Productivity of Faculty and How They Are Coping in Higher Education, Dr. Selena Tate, Assistant Professor, College of Agriculture & Human Sciences

VPRI FACULTY-RISE INITIATIVE

The Faculty-Research and Innovation Success and Excellence (Faculty-RISE) program strategically invests in high-priority research and innovation clusters identified by the university. The Faculty-RISE program provides needed support to faculty in disciplines that lead to scholarly research centers and institutes. Faculty-RISE pushes the boundaries of knowledge and critical points of convergence for the university, and cultural experiences for students and faculty, encouraging multi- and inter-disciplinary collaboration. • High-Pressure Combustion of Liquid Fuels in Microgravity. Dr. Yuhao Xu, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering

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24 +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ • Develop Novel Tissue Engineering Materials for +++++++++++++++++++++ Regenerative Medicine, Cancer and Radiobi+++++++++++++++++++++ ology Research via Interdepartmental Collaborations at Prairie View A&M University. Yunx+++++++++++++++++++++ iang Gao, Assistant Professor, Department of +++++++++++++++++++++ Chemistry, College of Arts and Science +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ • Impact of an External Vascular Access Device on Arteriovenous Fistula Patency Rates. Dr. +++++++++++++++++++++ April Lovelady, Assistant Professor, Depart+++++++++++++++++++++ ment of Mechanical Engineering, College of +++++++++++++++++++++ Engineering. +++++++++++++++++++++ • Thiamin and Thiamin Analogues as Carriers +++++++++++++++++++++ for Drug Delivery to Cancer Cells. Dr. Sameh +++++++++++++++++++++ Abdelwahed, Assistant Professor, Department +++++++++++++++++++++ of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ VPRI GRADUATE FELLOWS +++++++++++++++++++++ PROGRAM +++++++++++++++++++++ Vice President Rajan’s VPRI Graduate Fellows +++++++++++++++++++++ Program was introduced to support excellence in graduate research and promote interdisci+++++++++++++++++++++ plinary research. The initiative engages the best +++++++++++++++++++++

and brightest students from graduate programs across the institution. The VPRI Graduate Fellows Program will ensure graduate students have opportunities for success by working with faculty researchers in the Faculty Research and Innovation for Scholarly Excellence (Faculty-RISE) program.

• Abdelhadi Hussein, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering • Adeyemi Taylor, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, College of Engineering • Brianna Williams, Department of Chemistry, College of Arts & Sciences

• Ekele A. Asonye, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, College of Engineering • Elizabeth Osadare, Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering • Eze Bede, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, College of Engineering • Julien Dubois, Department of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences • Kelechi G. Eze, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, College of Engineering • Latrice Jerrells, Department of Chemistry, College of Arts & Sciences • Michael Adeniran, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering • Olutobi Adagunodo, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, College of Engineering • Pranay Krishna Katari Haribabu, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering • Roberto deFreitas, Agriculture, Nutrition, & Human Ecology, College of Agriculture & Human Sciences • Sanjuana Aguilar, Department of Chemistry, College of Arts & Sciences • Sara Delfan, Department of Chemistry, College of Arts & Sciences

• Sheikh Tareq Ahmed, Department of Computer Science, College of Engineering • Uchenna S. Igwe, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering • Veronica Williams, Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering

SWING FACULTY GRANT WRITING SUMMER WORKSHOPS This year saw an improvement in the delivery of the annual summer grant writing training. In the wake of the pandemic, we removed the barriers to access caused by COVID-19 and location by providing it on a virtual platform. The Summer Workshop in Grantwriting (SWinG) provided an interactive format for learning current proposal submission information. The Office of Research Advancement led a series of summer grant writing workshops for faculty and staff researchers.

RESEARCH & INNOVATION TRAINING INSTITUTE:

A VIRTUAL AND VITAL BREAKTHROUGH

The sporadic research development training offered a few times a year has proven to be insufficient in the past. This year, Vice President Rajan initiated a new weekly training institute for faculty, staff and students focused on a broad range of topics under the research and innovation umbrella. The goal is to bring expert speakers to provide skills, tools, essential +++++++++++++ training, and knowledge to the campus research community +++++++++++++ for enhanced research and innovation activities.

+++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ The COVID-19 pandemic halted face-to-face RITI train+++++++++++++ ing. However, without delay, the Division of Research +++++++++++++ and Innovation developed new approaches for pro+++++++++++++ viding the needed faculty research development train+++++++++++++ ing safely by moving to a virtual environment. Over+++++++++++++ all, 29 training sessions have been offered, with more +++++++++++++ than 1,288 participants attending the RITI sessions offered +++++++++++++ this year. +++++++++++++ By offering the sessions in a virtual +++++++++++++ learning space, RITI helps elim+++++++++++++ inate some of the physical and +++++++++++++ geographical barriers to accessing +++++++++++++ professional development opportu+++++++++++++ nities. RITI provides opportunities NEW TRAINING +++++++++++++ for our faculty to meet and learn INITIATIVE +++++++++++++ from experts at PVAMU and exter+++++++++++++ 29 sessions nal entities such as the National +++++++++++++ +1,288 participants Science Foundation. “By offering +++++++++++++ RITI via a virtual platform, we are +++++++++++++ increasing access to essential infor+++++++++++++ mation that supports researchers in +++++++++++++ their endeavors to write and submit successful external research funding proposals. We are also building +++++++ an ecosystem that encourages multidisciplinary collaboration,” said Karen Cotton, manager of research

RITI

and innovation communications. The RITI training sessions are recorded and made available for on-demand viewing on the PVAMU Research YouTube channel. It has proven to be highly engaging and successful, with numerous participants accessing every week. With nearly endless options for research and innovation topics to be addressed, there’s no end in sight for this exciting new initiative.

RESEARCH DATA BLITZ:

WEEKLY RESEARCH BITS FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY COLLABORATIONS

THE RDB SESSIONS HAVE PROVIDED A BOOST TO OPPORTUNITIES FOR COLLABORATION AMONG RESEARCHERS ON THE CAMPUS To promote interdisciplinary collaborations and add visibility to faculty research scholars beyond their departments and colleges, Vice President Rajan initiated the Research Data Blitz (RDB). RDB is a gathering of research scholars who make eight-minute presentations to the campus community about their research projects and interests. Participation in RDB has become highly coveted among faculty seeking new collaborators and new research ideas. The RDB sessions have provided a boost to opportunities for collaboration among researchers on the campus. The sessions give researchers an unprecedented look at what is happening in the laboratory next door. Each week, a lineup of researchers has eight minutes to tell their research stories. They share information about research interests, current, and past projects, academic history, and collaboration opportunities. The RDB has a two-fold purpose: 1) Share and appreciate faculty research and scholarly activities and accomplishments, and 2) Encourage and enhance interdisciplinary collaborations. “The Research Data Blitz Session is a unique forum — it offers the opportunity for the PVAMU community to share and appreciate faculty research and scholarly accomplishments in all disciplines. More importantly, it is a mechanism to encourage and enhance interdisciplinary collaborations to tackle challenging problems,” said Ramaswamy Krishnamoorthi, Director of the Office of Research Advancement. Since its inception in April 2020, the Research Data Blitz has hosted nine hour-long sessions with 72 presenters with an impact to more than 440 researchers on campus. Initiatives such as RDB serve to increase awareness about the remarkable research happening on The Hill.

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A BRIGHT IDEA ON R&I BRANDING NEW LOGO, NEW MOTTO,

A SITE TO BEHOLD:

GOOD LOOKS & GREAT REVIEWS FOR R&I’S NEW WEBSITE

& INNOVATIVE BRANDING

We started the fiscal year as the Office of Research, Innovation, and Sponsored Programs. As we bring the 2020 fiscal year to a close, much more than our name has changed. The Division of Research & Innovation is in the final stages of a non-construction branding and wayfinding project. The project includes a branding team consisting of representatives from each of the units in R&I, the PVAMU Marketing & Communications Department, Campus Planning, and the College of Education.

The name change to the Division of Research & Innovation better reflects the direction we are moving toward as we face the future. “Most innovation is a natural next step after completing a thorough study. The knowledge gained guides the process that moves an idea to innovation,” states Vice President Rajan. “In R&I, we are creating an ecosystem that stimulates and supports both the research process and moving that research to marketable innovation. The innovation is expected to reflect every aspect of our functioning and branding. Therefore an innovative, bold and consistent branding has been developed.” ++++++++++++++++

++++++++++++++++ “The name change captures the essence of who ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ we are and what we do,” Vice President Rajan ++++++++++++++++ adds. “We worked closely with the PVAMU ++++++++++++++++ Office of Marketing and Communications to ++++++++++++++++ ensure the branding changes were aligned with ++++++++++++++++ university standards. Our new logo includes the ++++++++++++++++ visual depiction of a light bulb. The light bulb ++++++++++++++++ has long been used as a symbol of innovation, ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ denoting the origination of a smart idea, the ++++++++++++++++ sudden flash of understanding or insight into ++++++++++++++++ how to achieve something — often in a new, ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++

different, and pioneering way. That is what is at the crux of the new name and our path forward.” The branding team polled R&I staff at critical design points to ensure the result reflects the vision of Vice President Rajan and one that reflects the collective voice of the R&I team. The modern design is fitting for a division that interacts with private industry, the global community and scholars. As the installation of the non-construction branding and wayfinding project is underway, visitors to the first floor find design elements that offer a visual journey of the research process. It meets you in the abstract depiction of the initial research question and takes you through the trials and finally to the tried, tested and undeniable conclusion that is research. The design installation includes state-of-the-art wayfinding technology to help visitors navigate both the offices of Research & Innovation and the College of Education. We took this opportunity to create a Wall of Excellence. This space is intended to recognize faculty, staff, and students who have exemplified dedication, success and commitment to elevating the research enterprise at PVAMU.

Potential collaborators, funders, industry partners, and the global community make snap judgments based on the appearance and usability of a website. The website is often the first introduction to the public. Proven best-practices on the importance of having a website designed by putting customers first advises: the site, designed to conform to users’ wants and needs in content, navigation, and appearance, did indeed foster positive attitudes. The Division of Research & Innovation recently underwent a long-overdue redesign of its website. With the redesign, we made every effort to keep customer service at the forefront of the design process. Vice President Rajan was instrumental in designing and developing the overall website and the office webpages with significant support from Crysta Mendes. Karen Cotton assisted with the content for various units within R&I.

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE ++++++ AT WWW.PVAMU.EDU/RESEARCH

The previous design left users unsure of how to connect with staff, what services were provided, and was not user-friendly in its design. A chief complaint was that users could not quickly get to information sought, and it was occasionally outdated. R&I collaborated with Webservices to design a space that has a vibrant, modern, and refined look and feel that is both userfriendly and easily updated. Since the website redesign's completion, researchers, who are our primary customers, have shared positive comments such as the website is “very impressive.” R&I staff member Crysta Mendes, who was involved in the redesign project, notes the website’s many advantages. “It helps researchers by making it easier to find needed information. By infusing visuals into the website, it is now more appealing and engaging,” says Mendes. “It has the information that our researchers need versus what we thought simply ‘needed’ to be there.”

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++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++ ++++++

ONE TEAM. ONE DREAM:

ONE STRONG TEAM MAKES THE DREAM REAL We end this year with a team of leaders empowered to exercise their skills, strengths and confidence to make decisions that will Push Panthers Forward! The Division of Research & Innovation (R&I) started the year as the Office of Research, Innovation, and Sponsored Programs. The name change and unifying the entire team under one roof are just a few of the many changes the Division has seen. As a result of several interventions deployed by Vice President Rajan, the R&I team has begun functioning under the moniker of “One Team. One Dream.” With a bit of hesitancy, the R&I staff joined as Vice President Rajan began planning Monthly Socials that included professional development. After several months, Rajan handed over the reins of planning the Monthly Socials to the staff, who have continued planning the Monthly Social events virtually throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Each month, one of the R&I units volunteers to lead a team-building activity. “Participating in the monthly staff-led, team-building activities gives us the opportunity to see our co-workers in a very different light,” said Lora Williams, Director of the Office of Title III Programs.

LEADERS BECOME GREAT NOT BECAUSE OF THEIR POWER BUT, BECAUSE OF THEIR ABILITY TO EMPOWER OTHERS. - John Maxwell

ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2020

RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

OFFICE OF

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

EXCELLENCE IN THE SPOTLIGHT MISSION The Office of Marketing and Communications (OMC) in the Division of Research & Innovation is committed to significantly increasing the visibility of PVAMU’s research and innovation enterprise by providing exceptional marketing and communication services. The OMC is committed to practicing a strategic mindset for creative and successful marketing through disciplined, state-of-the-art best marketing principles and practices, assessing initiatives and creating robust marketing campaigns, infusing bold and measurable creativity as well as enforcing branding, creating impactful content and rigorous digital and social-media engagement, encompassing the big-picture and the attention to details for sustainable growth in measurable visibility and impact of the research and innovation enterprise. The OMC is committed in its alignment with the Division of Research & Innovation’s strategic vision to elevate the PVAMU research enterprise as an emerging research institution.

As we started the 2020 academic year, we were challenged with making the world aware of the remarkable research occurring at PVAMU. We were struggling to keep the website updated with current articles about our researchers’ achievements; our social media platforms lagged on publicizing events, and print media often was placed on the back burner.

FY 20 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Vice President Rajan reimagined the use of staff in the Office of Marketing and Communications (OMC) to manage R&I’s needs more proficiently. He provided supplementary staffing support to assist the major projects in research branding and marketing. It helped another staff to focus on enhancing the research communications. This strategy enabled the team to complete multiple print and digital projects in an efficient and timely manner. In the past year, R&I social media engagement increased by 10 percent, current articles on researchers and funding are visible on both the PVAMU landing page and on the R&I sites. Several print documents have been completed, including the ReView research magazine, the Research Capabilities booklet, and the Undergraduate Research booklet. The OMC website is a hub of information for all things related to research and innovation. The site features the latest research news and easy access to social media. We have included videos about researchers and on-demand access to the Research & Innovation Training Institute (RITI) and the Research Data Blitz (RDB) as well. The updated site includes a current calendar of events, publications, and an invitation to connect with R&I about new research, innovation, various scholarly issues, and student success activities. o

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RITI SESSIONS

1,288

PARTICIPANTS AT TRAINING SESSIONS

525%

INCREASE IN PUBLISHED RESEARCH ARTICLES

200%

INCREASE IN PUBLISHED PRINT DOCUMENTS

900%

INCREASE IN VIDEOS PRODUCED

30%

INCREASE IN SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS

249%

INCREASE IN SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS

FLYERS PREPARED

#PVAMURESEARCH

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+++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++

OFFICE OF

RESEARCH ADVANCEMENT

Before creating the Office of Research Advancement (ORA), seeking out large scale external funding was a haphazard endeavor, left solely to researchers. With support from ORA, there is now a strategic approach to seeking large scale funds, matching researchers to funding, and providing support throughout the proposal development process. As a result of this and other strategic efforts in Fiscal Year 2020, we saw a notable change in the number and quality of research proposals submitted for external funding. The ORA team introduced their team's services by presenting a training session on the newly formed Research & Innovation Training Institute (RITI). ORA also improved delivery of the annual summer grant writing training by removing the barriers to access and providing it on a virtual platform. The Summer Workshop in Grantwriting (SWinG) provided an interactive format for learning current proposal submission information. Besides providing support for research proposal development, including editing, timeline development, and ensuring the proposal meets the funder’s requirements, ORA has other points of pride to be acknowledged in its first year of existence. ORA staff often say, “We exist to assist.” o

FY 20 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

A STRATEGIC NEW APPROACH TO RESEARCH ADVANCEMENT MISSION

++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++

The Office of Research Advancement (ORA) is committed to advancing the research enterprise by significantly increasing the pursuit of large-scale, sponsored research opportunities by faculty and staff researchers. In alignment with the Division of Research & Innovation’s strategic vision for an emerging research university, the ORA is dedicated to providing strategic as well as broader grant-seeking services, nurturing faculty research engagement and advancement activities by facilitating partnerships with federal agencies and institutions at regional and global levels.

Number of departments supported to receive targeted funding opportunities across 8 colleges/schools FACULTY COHORT Planning for New Fall 2020 RISE-Junior Faculty Grantwriting workshop series

Number of 248 Number 212 of funding faculty supported

opportunities disseminated to target research clusters

to receive targeted funding opportunities

SWinG Grant writing Workshop sessions offered

196

442 Research

SWinG Grant writing session participants

Data Blitz participants impacted

2 FACULTY COHORT and 6 211 AD-HOC REVIEWS

Review and Selection Processes of Proposals for Limited Submission

Number of faculty awards for graduate student research proposal review and award management

84 Number 9 ($17.2M) of faculty Number of supported for proposal review and editing

RESEARCH

Number of Funding Agencies – proposals supported (Federal/Private)

NASA, NSF, DoD, DOA, NIH, NEH, DoL, USDA, DHS, DoI, DoE, DoEd, National Trust for Historic Preservation, Institute for International Education of Students, Humanities Texas, Welch Foundation

Large-Scaled Proposals (>$1M) supported

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THE OSP IS DEDICATED TO BEING IN ALIGNMENT WITH THE DIVISION OF RESEARCH & INNOVATION’S STRATEGIC VISION TO ELEVATE THE PVAMU RESEARCH ENTERPRISE The Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) has struggled to secure its role in the university awards process since its functions were moved to PVAMU in Fiscal Year 2017. There was a steep learning curve for researchers to become acclimated to having their proposal submission, award and negotiations completed in-house. OSP has made tremendous strides in Fiscal Year 2020. Much of the operations now have specific procedures that are known by the research community. OSP has presented training in a number of settings, including the Virtual RITI program, on the many functions of OSP. The data shows there has been significant improvement and an increase in the proposal submission and awards management. o

FY 20 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

164

210

24% INCREASE FROM FY19 69% FROM FY18 Total Number of Restricted Research Proposals Submitted

200M

20.3M

43M

19.5M

FY19 FY20

9.6M

TOTAL SPONSORED EXPENDITURES

FY18

8.4M

18.5M

FY19 FY20

7.7M

FY19 FY20

FY18

RESTRICTED RESEARCH EXPENDITURES (EXTERNALLY SPONSORED)

20.3M

FY18

9.6M

RESTRICTED RESEARCH AWARDS

46.5M

FY19 FY20

19.9M

FY18

18.2M

The Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) is committed to advancing the sponsored research enterprise by providing exceptional leadership and expertise in submitting proposals, obtaining and negotiating awards, stewarding sponsored research administration across the entire life cycle of awards, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. The OSP is dedicated to being in alignment with the Division of Research & Innovation’s strategic vision to elevate the PVAMU research enterprise to eventually become an emerging research institution.

40.8M

MISSION

TOTAL RESTRICTED RESEARCH EXPENDITURES (EXTERNAL & INTERNAL)

ALIGNING SPONSORED PROGRAMS WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

76% INCREASE FROM FY19 198% FROM FY18 Total Amount of Restricted Research Proposals Submitted

AWARD AND EXPENDITURE DATA

14M

SPONSORED PROGRAMS

100% INCREASE FROM FY19 106% FROM FY18 Total Amount of Proposals Submitted

TOTAL SPONSORED AWARDS

OFFICE OF

Total Number of Agencies received Proposals

134M

8.5M

Total Number of Proposals Submitted

FY18

FY19 FY20

+++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ R E S E A R C H E X C E L L E N C E AT T H E V I E W +++++++++++++++++ 40 +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ PROMOTING SAFETY AND +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ COMPLIANCE IN RESEARCH +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ MISSION +++++++++++++++++ The Office of Research Compliance (ORC) is committed to advancing +++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++ the research enterprise by providing exceptional training and support,

OFFICE OF

RESEARCH COMPLIANCE

promoting safe and ethical conduct of research to protect the researchers and research subjects, effectively coordinating institution-wide research compliance policy and procedure development and implementation, assisting researchers with identifying compliance issues and developing strategies, such that PVAMU is compliant with federal, state and system regulations and institutional policies. ORC is committed to being in alignment with the Division of Research & Innovation’s strategic vision to elevate PVAMU research enterprise to eventually become an emerging research institution.

THE OFFICE OF RESEARCH COMPLIANCE HAS TAKEN A MAJOR STEP TOWARDS TRANSITIONING FROM PAPER-BASED PROTOCOL STORAGE TO ELECTRONIC PROTOCOL STORAGE

FY 20 ACCOMPLISHMENTS POST APPROVAL MONITORING (PAM)

TRAINING 43% Increase in IRB Trainings from FY19 Research Compliance Trainings 20 were offered

25% Increase in the number of BL2 Labs Inspected (10 Labs) from FY19 Improved BL2 lab certification process 19 Lab and Annual Facility Inspections 14 PAM Research Compliance Site Visits 28 Annual Protocol Reviews

Trainings were supported for

23 Compliance Committee members

and PIs 33 New Employee Trainings were given

SOPs

PROTOCOLS

Operating 35 Standard Procedures (SOP) reviewed in IACUC SOPs 60% Increase reviewed from FY19

Number of New 118 Protocols Reviewed Number of Protocols 67 Amendments Reviewed of New Protocols 185 Number and Amendments Reviewed

NONCOMPLIANCE INCIDENTS/REPORTING

EXPORT CONTROLS

in IRB noncompliance 40% Decrease incidents/reports from FY19 in IACUC noncompliance 50% Decrease allegations incidents/reports from FY19 in IBC noncompliance 67% Decrease allegations incidents/reports from FY19

PVAMU Export Control Rule was revised The Export Control Manual was updated

IBC

IACUC Prepared the OLAW Assurance Statement for re-submission Reviewed all 70 IACUC SOPs to match the Assurance Statement The IACUC brought an IACUC / Animal Care expert on campus to review the animal research program for continuous improvement RESEARCH

ORC and the IBC launched the IBC Teaching Permit Form The IBC created the BL1 SOP Template

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++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

OFFICE OF

TITLE III PROGRAMS

STRENGTHENING INFRASTRUCTURE MISSION The Office of Title III Programs (OTP) is committed to supporting PVAMU’s mission to strengthen its overall infrastructure by serving as the central administrative office for effectively managing the HBCU, HBGI and SAFRA grant funded programs. The OTP is dedicated to ensuring effective planning, implementation and management, budgetary and administrative oversight, evaluation and reporting of high-impact activities that are approved by university administration. The OTP is committed to ensuring compliance with federal, system and university regulations, and serving as a liaison between PVAMU and the U.S. Department of Education. The OTP is dedicated to being in alignment with the Division of Research & Innovation’s strategic vision to strengthen and elevate PVAMU.

The U.S. Department of Education advises that “The funds support the university by strengthening the academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability …” PVAMU Office of Title III Programs (OTP) ensures compliance with federal, system, and university regulations and serves as a liaison between PVAMU and the U.S. Department of Education. In the 2020 fiscal year, Title III supported multiple disciplines in support of university initiatives:

FY 20 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

6.3M

HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES (HBCU) FUNDED PROJECTS

 PVAMU Academic and Leadership Training Laboratory (Academic Affairs, Business  Affairs) Enhancement of Student Counseling Services to Receive IACS Accreditation and Improve the Risk Assessment Program (Student Affairs)  Prairie View Global View/Prairie View Goes Global Experience (Student Affairs)  Enhancement of Mass Communication Undergraduate Curriculum and Film and Television Studies Infrastructure (Arts & Sciences)  Program for Energy-Efficient Envelope Research (Architecture)  PVAMU Faculty Advancement Program for Research and Innovation (Research & Innovation)  Establish a Center for Instructional Innovation and Technology Services (Academic Affairs)  Enhancing Information Technology’s Infrastructure (Business Affairs)  Enhancing the Music Program at Prairie View A&M University (Arts & Sciences)  Establishing an Emergency Resource Center at Prairie View A&M University (Student Affairs)  Establishing the PVAMU Science, Mathematics, Reading, Technology and Social Studies (SMaRTS) Lab (Education)

1.4M

STUDENT AID AND FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY ACT (SAFRA) FUNDED PROJECTS

 Enhancement of Biology Undergraduate Curriculum and Infrastructure to Establish a Forensic Science Certificate Program (Arts & Science)  Enhancing the Computing Curriculum through Computer and Cyber Security Education (Engineering)  Establishing an Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program (IEP) in the College of Business (Business)  Integrating Hands-On Investing Experiences into the Finance Program (Business))  Chemical Engineering Laboratory Enhancement (Engineering)  Mechanical Engineering Laboratory Enhancement (Engineering)

1.2M

HISTORICALLY BLACK GRADUATE INSTITUTIONS (HBGI) FUNDED PROJECTS

 Establishing a Solar Experiment Laboratory (Engineering)  Enhancing the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program Structure (Nursing)  Undergraduate Research

THE FUNDS SUPPORT THE UNIVERSITY BY STRENGTHENING THE ACADEMIC QUALITY, INSTITUTIONAL MANAGEMENT, AND FISCAL STABILITY RESEARCH

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UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH

ELEVATE PVAMU RESEARCH ENTERPRISE TO BECOME AN EMERGING RESEARCH UNIVERSITY

MISSION The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) is committed to advancing the research enterprise by providing exceptional service in supporting and promoting high-quality mentored undergraduate research, scholarship and creative inquiry at PVAMU. The OUR is committed to partner with the undergraduate research council members and faculty across broad disciplines to plan and implement activities that stimulate and support undergraduate research. The OUR is dedicated to being in alignment with the Division of Research & Innovation’s strategic vision to elevate PVAMU research enterprise to become an emerging research university.

Undergraduate students at PVAMU typically have minimal opportunities to experience the joy of discovery that research brings. The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) seeks to change that by providing faculty mentors and research experiences. This year saw OUR transition its' operation to a virtual platform while continuing to expose students to the wonder of research. This year OUR established an Undergraduate Research Council to promote and provide ongoing opportunities for undergraduate research. Listed below are accomplishments from OUR:

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++  E stablished an Undergraduate Research Council with 31 members + rep++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ resenting all colleges ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 O rganized the Undergraduate Research virtual mini-symposium in May, ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic with 62 student presentations

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 A n Undergraduate Research booklet with 32 student posters + and +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ research reports has been published ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  3 5 undergraduate research scholars were provided funding support+to +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ conduct undergraduate research with 28 faculty mentors during the year ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  O rganized the third annual UG information session in collaboration with ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ the College of Juvenile Justice and Psychology (COJJP).

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+++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++ +++++++

OFFICE OF

INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS ANTICIPATES NEW OPPORTUNITIES IN THE COMING YEAR MISSION Vice President Rajan envisioned a long-term growth and development of mutually beneficial contracts and partnerships with targeted industries. In fulfillment of the vision, he established the Office of Industry Partnerships. The new focus area, Industry Partnerships is an effort to bolster existing partnerships and foster new relationships between industry and the university. PVAMU has a long history of successful industrial collaborations. The OIE has been formed to help coordinate and streamline our efforts so that industry partners can leverage all the resources. The office connects industry needs and challenges with opportunities and resources available at PVAMU. The goal is to build relationships and create projects that benefit both the university and private industry.

THE OFFICE CONNECTS INDUSTRY NEEDS AND CHALLENGES WITH OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES AVAILABLE AT PVAMU

Office of Industry Partnerships is charged with identifying partnership opportunities with corporations, industries, including startups, and entrepreneurs to partner with university in support of faculty researchers and students. PVAMU has had longstanding relationships with companies such as the NASA-Johnson Space Center. However, with a department entirely focused on seeking and cultivating new partnerships, we expect to see measurable growth in the coming year. By dedicating staff and expertise to this space, R&I can expand its support to the research and innovation community at large. The new office has made considerable progress with establishing partnerships or relationships with organizations such as PAE Applied Technologies, Accenture Federal Services, Collins Aerospace, KBR Incorporated and Raytheon.

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+++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ R E S E A R C H E X C E L L E N C E A T T H E V I E W 48 +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++MISSION +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++The I-CEED Office of Innovation-Commercialization (OIC) is committed to the Division +++++++++++++of Research & Innovation’s vision elevating PVAMU’s innovation, commercialization, +++++++++++++and entrepreneurship enterprise for greater economic development and impact on +++++++++++++ +++++++++++++the university, region and the state of Texas. The Office of Innovation-Commercial+++++++++++++ization (OIC) is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurialism

OFFICE OF

INNOVATIONCOMMERCIALIZATION

across the campus by leveraging innovation and entrepreneurial capabilities and creating a vibrant innovation ecosystem. We are committed to providing support for intellectual property development, technology transfers, and commercialization that further fuels the PVAMU’s research and innovation enterprise.

The I-CEED Office of Innovation-Commercialization (OIC) provides the following services to all PVAMU faculty, staff, students, alumni and the public.  Offer innovation and commercialization related training and workshops  Assist with innovation-related curriculum development or improvement across disciplines  Assist with accessing innovation facilities across campus and in the field  Provide guidance toward converting an idea to a product or process prototypes  Review and coordinate intention disclosures from PVAMU with TAMUS Office  Make recommendations to the VPRI for funding support for IP expenditures  Facilitate intellectual property development with IP attorneys  Provide assistance with the commercialization of IP with industrial partners  Provide direction to access incubator, startup processes, and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), etc.

Innovation Spaces and Facilities  Collaboration and Technology Lab  Innovation and Technology Lab  Innovation and Collaboration Lab (Northwest Houston Center)  Student Enterprise Zone  Fabrication Center  Intel Innovation & Creation Center  PEEER and SEED Lab

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OIE IS DEDICATED TO PROVIDING ACADEMIC AND

PROFESSIONAL TRAINING, ASSISTANCE, AND RESOURCES TO ENABLE ENTREPRENEURS FOR SUCCESS

The I-CEED Office of Innovation-Entrepreneurship (OIE) provides the following services to all PVAMU faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the public.

OFFICE OF

INNOVATIONENTREPRENEURSHIP +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ MISSION +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++The ++I-CEED ++++Office +++of+Innovation-Entrepreneurship ++++++++++++++ + in the Division of Research (OIE) ++++++++&+Innovation ++++++ +++++to+assisting +++++Prairie +++View +++A&M University (PVAMU) stuis + committed ++++++++dents, ++++ +++and +++ ++in+developing ++++++their +++ +++ ideas for commercializafaculty, staff innovative ++++++++tion. +++In+alignment +++++with +++ ++++strategic +++++vision ++ for an emerging research the++ division’s ++++++++university +++++and ++elevating +++++PVAMU’s +++++ ++++++++ innovation enterprise, OIE is dedicated to pro+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ professional training, assistance, and resources to enable ++++++++viding +++academic +++++and +++ ++++++++++++++ entrepreneurs for success. The primary ++++++++++++++++++++++ ++Office +++of+Innovation-Entrepreneurship’s +++++ among ++++++++objective +++++is+to+identify ++++entrepreneurial +++++++activities +++++ ++ PVAMU’s students, faculty ++++++++and ++staff, +++and ++assist +++them +++by+facilitating +++++internal ++++and ++external partnerships, along strategic their ++++++++with +++ ++++business ++++plans +++to+promote +++++ ++business +++ ideas. We foster entrepre++++++++neurial ++++talent, +++ideas +++and ++opportunities +++++++through ++++various ++ faculty and student-cen++++++++tered +++programs, +++++funding ++++support, ++++competitions, +++++++and ++access to start-up resources. campuses ++++++++Our ++interests +++++extend +++beyond ++++the ++three +++PVAMU ++++ ++ located in Prairie View, ++++++++Waller +++County, ++++Northwest +++++Houston ++++and ++Downtown ++++++Houston, + Harris County, into the ++++++++Greater ++++Houston ++++Area +++and ++the ++State ++of ++ ++++++ Texas. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 Idea Discovery or Creation

 Market Need or Market Opportunity Recognition  Feasibility Study

 Business Environment Analysis

 Business Model or Prototype Development  Market and Consumer Research  Business Plan

 Business Launch Strategy

Entrepreneurship Competitions

 HBCU Business Challenge Competition  HBCU Battle of the Brains Competition  International Entrepreneur Competition  National Black MBA Business Case Competition  Prairie View A&M University – Startup Competition  Texas A&M New Ventures Competition  Texas Christian University – Values & Ventures Competition  Rice University – Business Plan Competition  Baylor University – New Venture Competition

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INNOVATIONECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

+++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Regional Economic Development Partners & Activities ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The I-CEED – Office of Innovation-Economic Development partners with economic +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ drivers, facilitators, leaders in the city, region and state that further benefit the stake++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ holders’ economic growth and impact. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++  Prairie View A&M University Small Business Development Center ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  Prairie View A&M University CAHS – Cooperative Extension Program ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  Prairie View A&M University CAHS – CEP (Community+++++++++++++++++++++ and Economic Development) +++++++++++++  City of Prairie View Economic Development Corporation ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  Prairie View Chamber of Commerce ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  The City of Prairie View – Mayor’s Office ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  City of Waller Economic Development Corporation ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++  Waller County Economic Development Partnership +++++++++++++++++++++ – WCEDP ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  Waller Area Chamber of Commerce ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  Greater Houston Partnership – GHP ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ THE INNOVATION AND INNOVATION +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ COMMERCIALIZATION CORRIDOR ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURS ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The Innovation and Commercialization Center Prairie View A&M University ignites its entre+++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++

1890

ICCE

for Entrepreneurs (ICCE) is currently underway. The ICCE initiative will cultivate the entrepreneurial landscape, support the Texas A&M University Systems’ Chancellor’s Research Initiative, and provide essential tools required by entrepreneurs and innovators to commercialize their technologies. The ICCE project includes The I-CEED Office of Innovation-Economic Development (OED) is committed to the Division laboratory space designed for build-outs that of Research & Innovation’s vision to elevating PVAMU’s innovation, commercialization and feature energy-efficient systems, accelerator space with shared resources to maximize and entrepreneurship enterprise for greater economic development and impact on the univerleverage R&D capacities, three-story building, sity, region and the state of Texas. The Office of Innovation-Economic Development (OED) is office condominiums, conference rooms, retail +++++++++++++++ committed to fostering innovation, commercialization, entrepreneurialism+++++++++++++++ across campus space, and D-Space for tenants. PVAMU’s goal ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ is to be the leader in HBCU innovations by proand in the region. Our vision extends beyond the PVAMU three campuses+++++++++++++++++++++ located in Prairie +++++++++++++++++++++ moting its capacity as a revenue-generating View, Waller County, Northwest Houston, and Downtown Houston, Harris+++++++++++++++++++++ County into the +++++++++++++++++++++ institution employing technology’s commercial+++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ Greater Houston Area and the State of Texas. Our support for wealth and job creation is ization as a key economic driver.

MISSION

predominantly driven by inventors and entrepreneurs of color.

preneurial initiative with a commitment to design and develop an Innovation Corridor on a 50-acre, university-owned property. The project will strengthen the socioeconomic well-being of the cities of Prairie View, Waller, and Hempstead, as well as the Northwest Houston Corridor. The Innovation Corridor include four zones:

 Innovation and Commercialization  Entertainment  Residential Housing Zone for Faculty and Staff

 Commercial Real Estate The development will provide students with opportunities while offering amenities that support the broader community. The Innovation Corridor campus gateway development will facilitate and encourage connections between faculty, staff, students and the community.

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Send feedback to: research@pvamu.edu Prairie View A&M University is an EEO/AA institution

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P.O. Box 519; MS 6000 Wilhelmina Delco Bldg., Suite 120 Prairie View, Texas 77446

CONNECT WITH US! www.pvamu.edu www.pvamu.edu/research PVAMUResearch PVAMUResearch PVAMUResearch @PVAMUResearch PVAMUResearch Send feedback to: research@pvamu.edu

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