NSF Awards Special Creativity Extension to Kellar Autumn

The National Science Foundation has awarded Kellar Autumn, Professor and Chair of Biology, a “Special Creativity Extension” to his current Research in Undergraduate Institutions (RUI) grant. This will extend Dr. Autumn’s project, “RUI: Comparative micromechanics of gecko setae: Effects of rate, substrate, and environment.” This work will help advance the development of gecko-like synthetic adhesives and has the potential to transform understanding of the fundamental nature of friction. In addition, Dr. Autumn’s research trains undergraduates in interdisciplinary science and educates the general public. Information about this project is available here. (February 2012)