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AMSTERDAM, NY—Congressman Paul D. Tonko is announcing that a combined $1,254,501 is being awarded to several research projects at the University at Albany to study atmospheric and computer sciences, psychology and more. The grants are being administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF).

“The vision and dedication of our local researchers, professors and students in STEM fields provide valuable insights, pathways for future research and promises of a bright future for our Capital Region and beyond, even in these uncertain times,” Congressman Tonko said. “The pioneering efforts of these local researchers affirm our region as a beacon that lifts our nation to a higher standard of scientific achievement. Congratulations to all involved for these well-deserved awards that continue to carry our region—and our nation—forward.”

James Dias, UAlbany’s Vice President for Research said, “Research excellence is a core priority at the University at Albany. These awards highlight our commitment to advancing new knowledge and discovery both within the Capital Region and around the globe. My sincere congratulations to all of our scientists involved. UAlbany continues to lead cutting-edge research across many different disciplines that is making a real difference in the communities we serve.”

• $410,295 is being awarded to UAlbany to better understand how pollutants causing rapid change in the Arctic impact the chemical composition of the Earth’s atmosphere. The project is led by Dr. Sara Lance, Research Associate of Atmospheric Science.
• $271,926 is being awarded to UAlbany to design and develop robots able to form as temporary infrastructure, thereby advancing the fields of robotics, automated control, and mechanical design. The project is led by Dr. Weifu Wang, Assisstant Professor in the Computer Engineering Department.
• $122,295 is being awarded to UAlbany to research whether and how registration and notification of convicted sexual offenses works to deter adolescents from criminalized sexual acts. The project is led by Dr. Cynthia Najdowski, Associate Professor of Psychology.
• $449,985 is being awarded to UAlbany to research the number of common loss functions used for training machine learning known as aggregate loss in order to improve AI and data analysis. The project is led by Dr. Siwei Lyu, Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Director of the Computer Vision and Machine Learning Lab.

The NSF was established by Congress in 1950 as an independent federal agency and works to develop cutting edge technologies in physics, mathematics, cybersecurity, neuroscience, and STEM education. Currently, NSF is responsible for funding 25 percent of all federally backed research at national colleges and universities.

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