Institute for Energy and Environment
UT is raising the bar in research excellence with the addition of eight exceptional researchers, three of whom are tackling pressing challenges related to energy and environment. Two of these preeminent faculty hires are advancing the circular bioeconomy. A new engineering professor’s work with materials and structures under extreme conditions has applications for nuclear energy.
The NSF has recognized the BRIDGES Engine, co-led by UT, as a winner of the nationwide Regional Innovation Engines competition. BRIDGES will receive up to $160 million over 10 years to strengthen the circular bioeconomy in the southeastern US, cultivate a lasting innovation ecosystem, and drive economic growth in rural Tennessee communities and beyond.
Andrew Monteith has been named a Pew Scholar in the Biomedical Sciences—an early-career honor that recognizes promising scientists and supports bold, high-impact research. Monteith receives the honor for his research on heat in the form of fever and localized hot spots within the body.
UT is launching the Knoxville Quantum Accelerator (K-Quantum) to strengthen the region’s leadership in quantum technologies and translate quantum innovation into tangible economic benefits for companies and communities across Tennessee.
Theoretical Nuclear Physics professor Thomas Papenbrock is studying atomic nuclei using advanced theory and computation to better understand how matter behaves at its most basic level.
A professor at UT and the UT-Oak Ridge National Laboratory Governor’s Chair for Power Systems, Yilu Liu studies how to keep the power grid operating safely, efficiently, and affordably—even as it becomes more complex and unpredictable.
