Rutgers University-New Brunswick has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, a significant investment aimed at bolstering the university’s “lifeblood of discovery”—its postdoctoral researchers.
The funding will support 37 postdoctoral scholars across 12 scientific disciplines, spanning three of the university’s major schools: the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering and the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.
Rutgers is one of only 30 research universities in the nation selected for this support, part of a broader $55 million initiative by the Moore Foundation to sustain natural science research during a period of intense national competition for scientific talent.
“When we support postdoctoral scholars, we strengthen the laboratories, students and research programs that depend on them,” Sheila Borges Rajguru, executive director of research development and strategy at Rutgers-New Brunswick and the grant’s principal investigator said. “Their work drives innovation and moves discoveries from the bench toward real-world impact.”
The grant supports researchers tackling some of the most complex questions in modern science. The diversity of the projects highlights Rutgers’ role as a multidisciplinary research powerhouse:
- Neuroscience: Postdoctoral fellow Hector Alatriste-León is using advanced optical imaging to track brain neurochemicals like dopamine and serotonin in real time. His work aims to uncover the roots of depression and addiction.
- Geoscience: James Eguchi is investigating how massive volcanic events influence Earth’s climate and long-term habitability by studying rock samples from as far away as northern Norway.
- Quantum Materials: In the School of Engineering, researchers are developing “tunable” materials that could lead to more energy-efficient electronics and advanced robotic systems.
- Astrophysics: Scholars are studying supernovas to better calculate the expansion rate of the universe.
For many early-career scientists, the transition from student to independent investigator is fraught with financial uncertainty. The Moore Foundation grant provides much-needed stability, offering one- and two-year appointments that allow researchers to focus on high-impact science rather than seeking immediate funding.
“This award allows us to sustain talented scientists who have invested years in rigorous training,” Wendie Cohick, vice provost and vice chancellor for research said.
Mike Kiledjian, vice dean for research at the School of Arts and Sciences, echoed the sentiment: “From neuroscience to astrophysics, their expertise and creativity fuel the breakthroughs that shape medicine, technology, and our understanding of the universe.”
