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What is the HI-POWER Program?
HI-POWER (Hydrogen Innovation – Preparing and Obtaining a Workforce in Energy Research) is a summer research initiative hosted by the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in collaboration with Ames National Laboratory and supported by the U.S. Department of Energy. The program is designed to engage undergraduate students—particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds—in advanced hydrogen materials research to support the clean energy transition. HI-POWER focuses on the development of hydrogen-tolerant materials that can withstand extreme mechanical and tribological stress. Students investigate hydrogen-material interactions, alloy performance in hydrogen environments, and materials modeling and synthesis. Over the course of a ten-week immersive experience, participants engage in cutting-edge research, receive technical training, and benefit from interdisciplinary mentorship and professional development activities. The program includes two coordinated research tracks: HI-POWER SULI: Internships at Ames National Laboratory through the DOE Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internships (SULI) program. HI-POWER REU: Paid research experiences at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering with university and national lab mentors. The program welcomes applicants from mechanical engineering, materials science, chemical engineering, physics, chemistry, and related fields. Prior research experience is not required. HI-POWER actively promotes diversity and encourages participation from students at institutions with limited research infrastructure. Through access to national laboratories, top-tier university labs, and expert mentorship, students are prepared for graduate study or careers in hydrogen energy science and engineering.
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What is the HI-POWER Program?
HI-POWER (Hydrogen Innovation – Preparing and Obtaining a Workforce in Energy Research) is a summer research initiative hosted by the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in collaboration with Ames National Laboratory and supported by the U.S. Department of Energy. The program is designed to engage undergraduate students—particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds—in advanced hydrogen materials research to support the clean energy transition. HI-POWER focuses on the development of hydrogen-tolerant materials that can withstand extreme mechanical and tribological stress. Students investigate hydrogen-material interactions, alloy performance in hydrogen environments, and materials modeling and synthesis. Over the course of a ten-week immersive experience, participants engage in cutting-edge research, receive technical training, and benefit from interdisciplinary mentorship and professional development activities. The program includes two coordinated research tracks: HI-POWER SULI: Internships at Ames National Laboratory through the DOE Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internships (SULI) program. HI-POWER REU: Paid research experiences at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering with university and national lab mentors. The program welcomes applicants from mechanical engineering, materials science, chemical engineering, physics, chemistry, and related fields. Prior research experience is not required. HI-POWER actively promotes diversity and encourages participation from students at institutions with limited research infrastructure. Through access to national laboratories, top-tier university labs, and expert mentorship, students are prepared for graduate study or careers in hydrogen energy science and engineering.
How can I get Involved?
Requirements: The HIPOWER (Hydrogen Innovation – Preparing and Obtaining a Workforce in Energy Research) program offers two unique summer research opportunities for undergraduate students passionate about contributing to the clean hydrogen revolution and addressing climate change through advanced materials science. These opportunities are open to motivated students from mechanical engineering, materials science, chemical engineering, physics, chemistry, and related fields.
Participants will engage in hands-on research focused on developing hydrogen-tolerant materials that can withstand mechanical and tribological stress, with guidance from mentors at national laboratories, universities, and industry. Research activities include experimental studies, modeling, synthesis, and understanding hydrogen-material interactions.
No prior research or hydrogen-related experience is required. Students from underrepresented groups and those committed to diversity and inclusion are especially encouraged to apply. To learn more or get involved, please contact one of the program directors.
