Jonathan J. Sanford, PhD, President | University of Dallas

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has granted the University of Dallas $200,000 for laboratory instruments. This grant follows a successful application led by Assistant Professor Jonathan Dannatt, PhD. The new equipment will allow students in the Organic Chemistry II course to collect real data rather than engage in "cookbook-style experiments," according to Dannatt.

The University of Dallas qualified for this award due to its recent designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). All science majors at the university must complete laboratory coursework. In 2023, Dannatt introduced research experiences instead of traditional methods to meet this requirement. This change showed benefits such as better preparation for advanced studies and improved lab skills, but it also highlighted equipment shortages that required students to find extra time for research.

"Last summer, I faced the unfortunate situation of a student eager to engage in research but forced to accept a job in a restaurant to support her family financially," said Dannatt. He noted that financial constraints often limit research opportunities for underrepresented students who may need external jobs.

With the NSF grant, more chemistry, biology, and biochemistry majors can benefit from research experience. "The first pilot Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) was implemented in the Organic Chemistry II lab courses in 2023," said Dannatt. "While the initiative demonstrated promise, it revealed significant challenges related to a lack of instrumentation availability." He emphasized that the NSF HSI award would address these issues by funding necessary equipment.

Additionally, undergraduate research is expected to increase retention among science majors and help clarify career interests within STEM fields.

The University of Dallas is recognized for its rigorous undergraduate Core Curriculum and diverse graduate programs across various disciplines. It aims to be a leading Catholic liberal arts institution with campuses in Texas and Italy.