Center News
Exploring Brain Health Across Scales: A Two-Day Challenge on the Networks that Drive Neuroinnovation
On May 7–8, 2025, COMPASS proudly partnered with the Biointerfaces Institute at the University of Michigan to present the Nanoscale, Microscale, and Macroscale Networks in Brain Health Technologies Challenge. The two-day event convened a dynamic community of...
The 2025 COMPASS AI/ML Grand Challenge Launches This June
Get ready for an inspiring global event! The 2025 COMPASS AI/ML Grand Challenge, taking place from June 2–10, invites African researchers, data scientists, and AI/ML practitioners to step up and tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges through...
Dhanush in Mauritius
(From Left to Right) Dhanush Udayashankara Jamadgni, Ambassador Henry V. Jardine, Prof. Archana Bhaw-Luximon, and Lakshmi Sujeeun Dhanush shared his experience in visiting the University of Mauritius! "My time at Center for Biomedical and biomaterials research (CBBR)...
Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Dhanush Udayashankara Jamadgni’s Journey
At COMPASS, we take pride in nurturing the next generation of scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs. One such inspiring journey is that of Dhanush Udayashankara Jamadgni, a PhD student working with Prof. Martin Thuo and a dedicated member of our Junior Scientists...
Alain Kadar’s Experience at AASTU as a CERA Fellow
COMPASS PhD student Alain Kadar, who conducts research in Prof. Kotov and Prof. Glotzer's Lab, recently had the opportunity to travel to Ethiopia as a CERA Fellow. His time at AASTU (Addis Ababa Science and Technology University) was filled with impactful experiences,...
Michael Veksler visiting Senegal for collaboration and exchange!
Michael Veksler, a PhD student in Kotovlab, visited Senegal for collaboration and exchange! Michael mentioned: "Conducting research in Senegal has provided me with a new perspective on the innovative approaches required in a resource-constrained environment. I am...
Prof. Ying Diao Receives Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE)
We are thrilled to announce and celebrate a remarkable achievement by COMPASS member Prof. Ying Diao, who has been honored with the prestigious Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). This award represents the highest recognition...
Nick Kotov Elected to the National Academy of Engineering!
We are thrilled to announce that Professor Nicholas Kotov has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE)—one of the highest professional honors in the field of engineering. This prestigious recognition highlights his groundbreaking work in biomimetic...
DoD Workshop on Geoparticle Systems
In December of 2024, COMPASS worked with US Army and Department of Defense to produce a workshop to address key research needs in the area of geoparticle-based engineering. We assembled this research to pursue three goals: Define the PROBLEM:[1] Define Soil...
COMPASS All Hands-on Meeting Report – December 5 & 6, 2024
COMPASS All Hands-on Meeting, held on December 5 and 6, 2024, offered a dynamic forum for participants to explore advancements in complex materials and foster global collaborations. Attendees included faculty, graduate students, and research fellows, totaling 90...
Revolutionizing Energy Technologies with Aramid Nanofibers: Insights from African MRS 2024
At the African Materials Research Society (AMRS) Conference 2024, Professor Nicholas Kotov of the University of Michigan delivered an insightful presentation on the transformative potential of Aramid Nanofibers (ANFs) in advancing energy technologies. His talk...
Advancing Geoparticle Science: Insights from the Complex System of Small Geoparticle Workshop
The Complex System of Small Geoparticle Workshop brought together leading experts, researchers, and policymakers to explore the critical role of geoparticles in climate change mitigation and sustainable agriculture. Hosted by COMPASS, the workshop focused on defining...