UH to Receive $1.5 Million in Research Funding

Photo courtesy of UH.

By Maui Now Staff

Hawaiʻi’s Congressional Delegation announced today that the University of Hawai‘i will receive $1.5 million in grant funding from the US Department of Energy for research in high-energy physics. A total of $8.9 million will eventually be invested.

“The study of particle physics is what led to the discovery of the electron over 100 years ago,” said Sen. Brian Schatz. “Understanding the subatomic particles that make up the universe is more than just a curiosity, but something that can benefit society in ways unimaginable. The University of Hawai‘i is quickly becoming a national leader in science, and this funding will help them continue their great work.”

“In a 21st century economy, the importance of science and technology innovation cannot be overstated,” said Sen. Mazie K. Hirono. “The University of Hawai‘i is a premier research institution and this grant allows physicists to continue cutting edge work that will improve the design of scientific instruments and increase our understanding of how our universe works at the most fundamental levels. This research is part of a long effort that has helped advance medicine, energy and homeland security.”

“Investment in science and technology is an investment in our future,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02). “The University of Hawai‘i will be able to use these funds to build on previous success and continue to lead in the field of high energy physics.”

“In order for our country to remain a leader in innovation we must re-affirm our commitment to investing in science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” said Congressman Mark Takai (HI-01). “Grants like the one announced today, provide the University of Hawai‘i with the opportunity to engage in important research and development initiatives. Investment in research and development provides a pathway to clean energy, job creation, and the fostering of the entrepreneurial spirit.”

According to UH, the high-energy physics research program is a top ranked program which has conducted research that was recognized in the work of Makoto Kobayashi and Toshihide Maskawa, the duo who won the 2008 Nobel Prize in Physics.

The high-energy physics program is directed toward the study of the properties of matter and the application of these studies to understanding the physical universe. Experiments are conducted using high-energy accelerators to search for new particles, test current theories and measure properties of particles.

The physics teaching programs, both graduate and undergraduate, benefit greatly from the active research activities in the department.