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May Faculty and Staff Grants

Restricted

• Casey Myers, Ritchie School of Engineering & Computer Science
• Funder: Restricted
• Abstract: Restricted

Preoperative planning for surgical treatment of patellar instability

• Chadd Clary; Casey Myers, Ritchie School of Engineering & Computer Science
• Funder: Ortho Haus, LLC (subaward NIH)
• Abstract: This project will study the dislocation of the patella, which is a chronic condition that occurs in many younger folks. There are a variety of surgical interventions that treat the condition, and the best treatment for each individual patient is based on their specific anatomy. There are two parts to the study. The first is studying the effects of each type of surgery on cadaveric knees. The second is measuring patients before and after surgery in the lab. The goal is to use the data to help improve patient specific surgical procedures.

PGCC – Colorado Collegiate Education and Support Evaluation

• Robin Leake, Graduate School of Social Work
• Funder: Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado (subaward Colorado Department of Revenue)
• Abstract: This study will support and expand efforts to identify and address program gambling. Separate proposals will address expanding vital services for treatment, prevention, education and outreach; funding the development of a certification program for MSW social students; expanding partnerships with colleges and universities across Colorado to implement education and support efforts to prevent and address problem gambling; and providing education, therapy and a public awareness campaign in Colorado K–12 schools to increase knowledge and resource utilization for addressing problem gambling.

Eastern Oregon Early Learning Hub Proposal – BB4B

• Alissa Rausch, Morgridge College Of Education
• Funder: Eastern Oregon Early Learning Hub
• Abstract: Three identified programs will work toward developing policies, processes and systems to sustain the Pyramid Model using effective meeting strategies, ongoing action planning and data-driven decision making.

Evaluating Efficacy and Moderators of a Postpartum Depression Prevention Program for Teens

• Adi Rosenthal, College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Funder: Klingenstein Third Generation Foundation
• Abstract: The proposed study will provide data on the efficacy of virtual and in-person ROSE in preventing postpartum depression among adolescents as well as individual-level factors that facilitate intervention success.

Y3 PDG Inclusion Coaching

• Alissa Rausch, Morgridge College Of Education
• Funder: University of Southern Mississippi
• Abstract: This project will provide coaching leadership and community teaming for MECIC Leadership to build coaching capacity for MECIC coaches in a child care setting. This will further support building capacity for the program leaders and providers, as well as assist with problem solving for coaching.

Pardee Quantitative Projections

• Jonathan Moyer, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs
• Funder: Restricted
• Abstract: This project will conduct quantitative projections for key industrialization scenarios at the global and regional levels for an industrial development report 2026.

June Faculty and Staff Grants

High-Stakes Justice Initiative

• Danielle Kalil & Brittany Kauffman, Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System
• Funder: State Justice Institute - VA
• Abstract: This project aims to transform court resources and processes to empower litigants in high-stakes, high-volume matters.

Women’s Mobilization Within Armed Groups During and After War

• Hilary Matfess, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs
• Funder: Peace Research Institute Oslo (subaward Complex Risk Analytics Fund)
• Abstract: We propose an expansion of the Women’s Activities in Armed Rebellion (WAAR Project) data project, focused on providing information on women’s wings affiliated with rebellion. This project will provide policymakers and academics with the tools they need to understand women’s mobilization within armed groups during war as potential partners – or roadblocks – in gender-responsive crisis action, as well as broader wartime gender dynamics, rebel group operations, and political mobilization among women. These contributions will support the anticipation and prevention of and response to crises and promote long-term peace and stability.

Group therapy for interrupting intergenerational patterns of abuse: A randomized controlled trial of Resilient Roots

• Adi Rosenthal, College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Funder: Mental Research Institute
• Abstract: Funding from the Mental Research Institute will support a randomized waitlist-controlled study to evaluate whether Resilient Roots 1) increases safety from abuse for children, 2) improves the parent-child relationship, 3) enhances caregiver well-being, and 4) is acceptable and feasible for a high-risk community setting. Positive results will demonstrate Resilient Roots as an effective parenting intervention to reduce intergenerational child maltreatment risk, with potential for widespread dissemination in community clinics, hospitals, and schools.

Salem-Keizer BB4B

• Alissa Rausch, Morgridge College Of Education
• Funder: Salem Keizer School District
• Abstract: Through this award, DU will provide professional learning for inclusion and belonging and classroom coaching to the school district.

ACS eLearning – FY25–26

• Christa Doty & Sarah Roman, Graduate School of Social Work
• Funder: NYC Administration for Children's Services
• Abstract: Butler will support ACS in creating eight interactive eLearnings that support leadership development utilizing the National Child Welfare Workforce Institute’s (NCWWI) asynchronous online learning modules as a foundation.

Reconstructing an Unintentional Library: Fueling Community Discussion and Education about the Holocaust using Jewish Cultural Reconstruction Books

• David Fasman, University Libraries
• Funder: Towson University (subaward Institute of Museum and Library Services)
• Abstract: This project will create a complete catalog of all Nazi-looted books held by the DU libraries, to be publicly accessible, along with a complete database of images for any indicators found in the books, to be publicly accessible. Potential restitution or repatriation of books to original owners, decedents, or institutions may also occur.

21st Century Justice: The Struggle to Decarcerate in the U.S. States

• Michael Campbell, College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Funder: Restricted
• Abstract: Dr. Campbell will collaborate with Dr. Schoenfeld on all necessary tasks to complete a book manuscript examining how different configurations in state contexts shapes correctional reforms that affect state prison populations.

Training and Curriculum Development

• Christa Doty, Graduate School of Social Work
• Funder: Massachusetts Dept. of Children & Families
• Abstract: The Butler Institute will deliver training to professional adults working in a child welfare setting and develop curriculum in the field of child welfare as well as in areas that support child welfare for the Massachusetts Dept. of Children and Families.

Maternal Prenatal Depression Reduction and Observed Parenting Sensitivity in Early Childhood

• Emily Melnick, College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Funder: Mental Research Institute
• Abstract: Early life caregiving experiences have profound and lasting effects on child development. One parenting context that has received surprisingly little attention in the literature on parental sensitivity is mealtime interactions. The project’s specific aims are to see if reducing prenatal maternal depressive symptoms improves maternal sensitivity during a playtime interaction with their 3-year-old child and if it improves maternal engagement and responsiveness to child cues during a mealtime interaction with their 3-year-old child.

July Faculty and Staff Grants

CAREER: Elucidating the Chemistry of Biological Lanthanide Chelators for Rare Earth Element Separation

• Allegra Aron, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
• Funder: National Science Foundation
• Abstract: Rare earth elements (REEs) are increasing in demand as raw materials for technologies, including those required for decarbonization (i.e., electric cars and wind turbines) and those essential for modern life (i.e., computers and cellphones). While current strategies for the extraction and refinement of these metals are energy-intensive, require harsh conditions, and are environmentally, biology has devised strategies for selective Ln recognition. This knowledge will inform our understanding of the rules of biological lanthanide-chelation, which can aid in the design of bio-ligands and/or bioaccumulation strategies for REE separation, isolation, and recycling.

A Novel Laser Ablation Device to Mitigate Coronary Obstruction and Facilitate Coronary Access in Redo TAVR

• Ali Azadani, Ritchie School of Engineering & Computer Science
• Funder: American Heart Association
• Abstract: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an established treatment for severe symptomatic aortic valve stenosis. In the past few years, there has been a steady decrease in the mean age of patients undergoing TAVR. As the average age of TAVR patients decreases, younger, low-risk individuals are outliving their transcatheter aortic valves (TAVs) due to the limited durability of current prosthetic valves, which typically last around 8 years. Redo-TAVR is emerging as a viable alternative to conventional open-heart surgery for these patients, but it raises significant concerns about coronary obstruction and access. Our proposal seeks to develop an innovative laser ablation device for precise modification of failed TAV leaflets. Given the expected rise in the number of patients undergoing redo-TAVR in the coming years, this device has significant potential to meet a critical unmet clinical need.

Leased Employee Agreement

• Michael Farries, Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging
• Funder: Colorado Permanente Medical Group
• Abstract: This project will enable the development and implementation of technology support for neurosurgical interventions.

Integrated Electrode Microwell Array Platform for Multimodal Analysis of 3D Cell Structures

• Reza Mahmoodi, Ritchie School of Engineering & Computer Science
• Funder: Colorado Office of Economic Development and Int'l. Trade
• Abstract: Advancements in understanding disease pathogenesis are hindered by the complexity of human physiology and limitations of current in-vitro models, especially in 3D cultures and microfluidics. These models, while closer to in-vivo conditions, face challenges in real-time, non-invasive monitoring due to the reliance on microscopy techniques that require labeling and are often disruptive. To address this, an electrode-integrated microwell array platform has been developed, allowing for high-content, multimodal, and non-invasive real-time monitoring of 3D cell cultures. By incorporating microfabrication techniques and transparent ITO electrodes, this platform enhances spatial resolution and enables precise, simultaneous monitoring of spheroids, significantly improving the accuracy and adaptability of drug trials and disease models.

ºÚÁÏÃÅ FIRST Forensic Evaluations

• Lavita Nadkarni, Graduate School of Professional Psychology
• Funder: Colorado Department of Human Services
• Abstract: This project shall provide specific evaluations as assigned by the Department and as requested by the court. Evaluations shall include a detailed report that meets departmental and statutory standards, outlining the results of the testing or evaluation, as well as a diagnostic impression and associated recommendations.

ºÚÁÏÃÅ FIRST Outpatient Competency Restoration Program

• Jennifer McMahon, Graduate School of Professional Psychology
• Funder: Colorado Department of Human Services
• Abstract: This project shall provide restoration education services with a standardized curriculum for adult and/or juvenile defendants to be provided by the Office of Civil and Forensic Mental Health. The Contractor shall provide restoration education services to clients referred by OCFMH.

ºÚÁÏÃÅ FIRST Postdoctoral Fellow

• Lavita Nadkarni, Graduate School of Professional Psychology
• Funder: Colorado Department of Human Services
• Abstract: This contract will fund post doctoral fellows to work in the Graduate School of Professional Psychology Forensic program. The post doctoral fellow will work on forensic evaluations and other projects.

Understanding relationship process, stress, and well-being in the daily lives of newlywed couples

• Nicholas Perry, ARC- College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Funder: Mental Research Institute
• Abstract: The proposed study will examine marriage as a novel, critical relationship context and life transition relevant for the everyday health and relationship wellbeing of sexual minority couples. This project will greatly expand our basic knowledge of how romantic relationships influence the health of sexual minority couples. It may also help identify novel targets for intervention to enhance the health of sexual minority couples and individuals. Thus, the proposed project has the potential to considerably expand the field of sexual minority health through a focus on the romantic relationship context at a key moment in couples’ lives.

Exploring Maternal Grandmother Support in the Perinatal Period: Impacts on Postpartum Mental Health

• Sarah Curci, College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Funder: Mental Research Institute
• Abstract: Depressive symptoms during the perinatal period are the most common obstetric complication in the United States with intergenerational consequences for mother and baby, highlighting the need for identification of modifiable factors that promote positive maternal mental health during pregnancy and postpartum. Understanding maternal grandmother support as a protective factor against the emergence of PPD symptoms is a critical opportunity to identify a promising intervention target. This project will focus on this area.

Exposure to extreme temperature and adolescent depression: Probing biological pathways and interactions with air pollution

• Erika Manczak, College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Funder: New York University
• Abstract: The proposed research is motivated by the need to better understand the relationship between environmental exposures and depressive symptoms in adolescents. Physical environmental exposures—such as to air pollution and water contamination—can play in increasing risk for depression in teens; however, little is known about the ways in which exposure to extreme temperatures may similarly contribute to risk. The proposed project would conduct the strongest assessment to date of the role of extreme temperature exposure on depressive symptoms and inflammatory pathways in adolescents. Insights from this project could be used to support the establishment of guidelines to reduce risk, to identify youths who may be most vulnerable to the effects of extreme temperature, and to contribute foundational knowledge around pathways of risk for depression.

ºÚÁÏÃÅ FIRST Risk Assessments and Release Examinations

• Neil Gowensmith, Graduate School of Professional Psychology
• Funder: Colorado Department of Human Services
• Abstract: The purpose of this contract is to provide risk assessments to support release exams for individuals who have been found not guilty by reason of insanity (NGRI) and are either currently in the inpatient custody of CDHS, on community placement, or on conditional release. CDHS is legislatively mandated to complete annual release exams.

International Career Advancement Program

• Tom Rowe, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs
• Funder: Robertson Foundation for Government
• Abstract: During the annual week-long seminar, ICAP brings together highly promising mid-career professionals with senior officials, faculty and staff at the Aspen Institute and then follows the program with additional activities designed to reinforce ICAP's impact. The ICAP seminar at Aspen includes discussions of policies and leadership, career workshops and individual advising, mentoring from senior officials, and informal occasions for group bonding.

August Faculty and Staff Grants

Molecular mechanisms of lysosome remodeling in response to cellular stress

• Xi Yang, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
• Funder: National Institutes of Health
• Abstract: Lysosomes are the cell’s recycling centers, and when they malfunction, they contribute to diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer. Research found that starvation triggers the breakdown of lysosome membrane proteins, a surprising discovery. By studying yeast, this project aims to learn how cells replace these proteins, which could point to new ways to treat lysosome-related diseases.

Collaborative Research: The causes and consequences of adaptive radiation in animal communication, from individuals to communities

• Robin Tinghitella, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
• Funder: National Science Foundation
• Abstract: Animals use songs, colors, scents, and dances to attract mates, but how new signals evolve is unclear since evolution is rarely seen in action. Because animals usually prefer familiar signals, new ones often fail—but some succeed. This project studies Hawaiian field crickets, where males evolved new songs that attract females but not deadly flies. This offers a rare chance to observe new signals emerging.

CAREER: Local-Global Properties in the Representation Theory of Finite Groups

• Mandi Schaeffer Fry, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
• Funder: National Science Foundation
• Abstract: This research focuses on group theory, a branch of math that studies symmetry. A key part, representation theory, uses matrices to make abstract ideas more concrete. The main goal is to see how much can be learned about large, complicated groups by studying smaller pieces—an approach called the local-global philosophy. This connects to two big unsolved problems in the field, one of which the researcher has already helped solve.

ºÚÁÏÊ– Positive Early Learning Experiences (PELE) Center

• Alissa Rausch, Morgridge College Of Education
• Funder: Northwest Regional Educational Service District
• Abstract: This project will provide services by the ºÚÁÏÊ– Positive Early Learning Experiences (PELE) Center in support of professional development, inclusive practices, and systems-building for NWRESD Early Learning programs and community partners across multiple counties.

The Two-Nuclear-Peer Threat, Deterrence, and Competition in the Indo-Pacific

• Debak Das, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs
• Funder: The Stanton Foundation
• Abstract: This project studies how the U.S. can manage nuclear competition with both China and Russia at the same time—a first in history. It examines how countries deter multiple nuclear rivals, what global impacts might follow, and uses archives and interviews worldwide to inform future nuclear and security policies.

PGCC – Colorado Collegiate Education and Support Evaluation

• Robin Leake, Graduate School of Social Work
• Funder: Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado (subaward Colorado Department of Revenue)
• Abstract: This study will support and expand efforts to identify and address program gambling. Separate proposals will address expanding vital services for treatment, prevention, education and outreach; funding the development of a certification program for MSW social students; expanding partnerships with colleges and universities across Colorado to implement education and support efforts to prevent and address problem gambling; and providing education, therapy and a public awareness campaign in Colorado K–12 schools to increase knowledge and resource utilization for addressing problem gambling.

Opportunity Next

• Elysia Versen, Colorado Evaluation and Action Lab
• Funder: Colorado Office of Economic Development and Int'l. Trade
• Abstract: CEAL will provide secure storage and identity resolution to connect Opportunity Next with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment wage data, analysis of linked dataset, display of the results in a dashboard, and consultation with OEDIT. Opportunity Next Colorado has the goal of more Coloradans enrolling in postsecondary education opportunities, including 2-year, 4-year and technical colleges and universities as well as career training, such as apprenticeship with a secondary goal of more Coloradans enrolling in pathways aligned with advanced industries.

Topics in symbolic dynamics

• Ronnie Pavlov, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
• Funder: Simons Foundation
• Abstract: This award funds travel in support of research on maximal pattern complexity, topological entropy, and substitutionally defined systems. Upcoming travel supported by this grant includes the PI presenting at the conference "Dynamics in Patagonia" in Chile.

Residuation in Algebra and Logic

• Nick Galatos, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
• Funder: Simons Foundation
• Abstract: This award funds travel in support of research bridging algebra and logic through the study of residuated lattices, uncovering deep interdisciplinary connections across mathematics, computer science, and linguistics. The PI will attend the TACL biennial conference to present on recent developments in lattice-ordered pregroups and on exact complexity bounds for substructural logics.

IFs for UN Women 6 plus 1

• Jonathan Moyer, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs
• Funder: UN Women
• Abstract: This project will explore future scenarios relating to gender equality and women’s empowerment. The work will contribute to UN Women’s Gender Snapshot report and reflect UN Women's Beijing+30 Action Agenda, helping policymakers and practitioners understand the economic benefits of gender equality and women’s empowerment. Pardee’s IFs tool will be used to model scenarios for the six action areas defined in UN Women’s plan: expanding digital access, ending poverty and violence, increasing decision-making power, peace and security, and advocating for climate justice.

REMA Training, North Carolina State University

• Crystal Day-Hess, Morgridge College Of Education
• Funder: Restricted
• Abstract: Restricted

A Proposal to the University of Colorado at Boulder For Support of Colorado Space Grant Consortium Affiliate Program

• Goncalo Fernandes Pereira Martins, Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science
• Funder: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
• Abstract: This project will be a part of the first year engineering curriculum, integrating mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering principles into a hands-on, multidisciplinary experience. The project provides students with the opportunity to design, build, and launch payloads to near-space altitudes, reinforcing fundamental engineering concepts through real-world problem-solving. By participating in the full engineering cycle—from conceptual design to high-altitude balloon deployment—students will develop technical proficiency in electronics, sensor technology, and data acquisition, as well as gain experience in project management and engineering communication.

Restricted

• Naazneen Barma, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs
• Funder: Restricted
• Abstract: Restricted

Muslim Self-Expression on TikTok and Instagram

• Andrea Stanton, College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Funder: Society for the Scientific Study of Religion
• Abstract: This collaborative project examines the opportunities that stem from self-identified Muslim users’ use of TikTok and Instagram for English-language self-expression, using a set of social scientific lenses. These individuals use these public spaces, on general-purpose platforms that attract users with a broad array of identities and positionalities, to share aspects of their lives, and their beliefs, even as Islamophobia and anti-Muslim sentiment continue to grow in Muslim-minority societies. This project explores the reasons behind these posts as well as the impact they have on the users who engage these platforms.

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