Collin Sindt, a University of Iowa undergraduate studying chemical engineering, has received a prestigious Fulbright Mitacs Globalink grant, which will allow him the opportunity to spend the summer in Canada working on a research project at the University of Montreal.

“This program will bring together several elements of my education and provide the opportunity to expand upon them and learn in a variety of ways,” said Sindt. “Over this coming summer, I’m hoping to grow my experience within renewable energy research, enhance my ability to adapt to and work in international settings, and strengthen my command of the French language, as I’m pursuing a French minor.”

Sindt will work with Nikolay Kornienko, an assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Montreal, on a project studying the conversion of solar energy to chemical fuels as a means of energy storage. One of the ongoing challenges in developing renewable energy solutions is improving energy storage mechanisms, and the project seeks to utilize catalytic frameworks to convert chemicals such as water and carbon dioxide into more complex chemicals, such as hydrogen and larger carbon compounds, which can be used as a means of energy storage. These processes are of interest as they present a solution to one of the largest issues that hinder the viability of renewable electricity generation, there is not yet a cost-effective means to store it in large quantities to be used at a later time. 

“This program offers the experience to bring together all that I’ve learned thus far and build solidly upon it as I move forward in my educational and professional careers,” said Sindt.

The grant will provide Sindt nearly $6000 and is designed to provide a “rewarding experience combining academic research at top Canadian universities, professional skills development workshops and social activities” as noted on the Fulbright Canada website.

About Fulbright Mitacs Globalink

The Fulbright-MITACS Globalink is intended for US Students interested in coming to Canada to undertake advanced research projects for 10 to 12 weeks (between May and August) in their area of interest. Projects will be drawn from a broad cross-section of research topics covering all academic disciplines and students will be placed with a university research project and undertake research projects under the supervision of a professor. Students will be given the opportunity to take part in professional training as well as extensive opportunity for cultural, social, and recreational experiences.

For more information, visit the website.