Simpson College has officially joined the Iowa Space Grant Consortium, a NASA-affiliated organization that provides students and faculty with access to significant funding, research opportunities, and professional development resources. The partnership aims to bolster Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education and research at the Indianola-based private university.
This collaboration opens doors for Simpson College's community to apply for grants, scholarships, and fellowships, as well as highly sought-after internships at NASA centers. The move positions the college alongside other prominent Iowa institutions in a statewide network dedicated to advancing aerospace and technology-related fields.
Key Takeaways
- Simpson College is the newest member of the Iowa Space Grant Consortium, a NASA-affiliated group.
- The partnership provides students and faculty with access to NASA-related funding, internships, and research grants.
- Current students are already conducting research on the effects of different gravity levels on single-cell organisms.
- The consortium aims to strengthen STEM education and create a skilled workforce for NASA and related industries.
A New Frontier for Research and Education
The inclusion of Simpson College in the consortium marks a significant milestone for its academic programs. Faculty and students across various disciplines can now pursue funding for projects that align with NASA's broad interests, which extend beyond aerospace to include biology, data science, and materials research.
Aswati Subramanian, an associate professor of biology at Simpson, expressed her enthusiasm for the new opportunities. She highlighted the immediate benefits for curriculum development and student engagement in high-level scientific inquiry.
“This is incredibly exciting news,” said Subramanian. “Simpson students and faculty across disciplines now have access to funding opportunities for research projects, as well as resources to develop curricula that support the development of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) skills, with a focus on improving student outcomes.”
The partnership was solidified after a campus visit from Sara Nelson, the director of the Iowa Space Grant Consortium. During her visit, Nelson toured lab facilities and learned about ongoing space biology research, laying the groundwork for the college's formal acceptance into the network.
What is a Space Grant Consortium?
The National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program is a national network of colleges and universities. Funded by NASA, these state-based consortia work to support and enhance science and engineering education, research, and public outreach efforts related to space, aeronautics, and technology.
Student Research Already Underway
Even before the official announcement, Simpson students were engaged in research directly relevant to NASA's mission. Two students, Brennan Voss and Brian Rollison, are currently working under the mentorship of Professor Subramanian on a project exploring gravity's impact on living cells.
Their research investigates how simulated microgravity and hypergravity affect single-cell organisms. This type of fundamental biological research is crucial for understanding how life, including the human body, adapts to the extreme conditions of spaceflight.
Hands-On Experience for Undergraduates
For Voss, a member of the class of 2027, the project has been an unexpected and rewarding challenge. He noted that the opportunity to conduct such specialized research was not something he anticipated as an undergraduate student.
“I have enjoyed the problem-solving that comes with stepping outside my comfort zone to explore new areas of science,” Voss stated, emphasizing the value of the hands-on experience.
His research partner, Brian Rollison, who also graduates in 2027, echoed this sentiment. He explained that the project provided him with valuable insight into the scientific process, especially as someone with limited prior research experience.
“Getting accepted into the Iowa NASA Space Grants Consortium is awesome because it not only opens the door for Brennan and me, but also for many students in the future,” Rollison added.
Their work exemplifies the kind of student-led projects the consortium aims to support, providing a direct pipeline from classroom learning to practical, impactful research.
Expanding a Statewide Network
Simpson College joins a respected group of Iowa institutions in the consortium. This network facilitates collaboration and resource sharing across the state, strengthening Iowa's contribution to the national aerospace and STEM sectors.
Strengthening Iowa's STEM Pipeline
The Iowa Space Grant Consortium plays a vital role in developing the state's future workforce. By connecting students with NASA's mission, it inspires and prepares them for careers in high-tech industries. The consortium includes a diverse group of educational institutions, ensuring broad access to its programs.
Other affiliate members of the consortium include:
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Drake University
- Des Moines Area Community College
- Loras College
- Morningside University
By joining this network, Simpson College not only enhances its own programs but also contributes to a larger, collaborative effort. According to Subramanian, other faculty members and students at Simpson are already expressing interest in pursuing grants and developing projects through the consortium.
This partnership is expected to create a ripple effect, fostering a culture of innovation and scientific curiosity on campus. It provides a structured pathway for students who dream of contributing to space exploration, earth science, and technological advancement, making those ambitions more attainable than ever before.