Single crystal of α-glycine grown

1. Crystal Growth in Gels Yields Single-Crystal CompositesLara A. Estroff, Cornell University, DMR 0845212 Crystal growth in gels has interested scientists for over a century. Recently, scientists at Cornell University have demonstrated that under the right conditions, gel-grown crystals incorporate the matrix in which they are grown (see Figure). The discovery of such structures challenges our traditional understanding of “single crystals.” We are continuing to research the range of different crystals that can be grown in this way as well as the physical properties of these crystals. Single crystal of α-glycine grown in an agarose hydrogel. Light microscope image (left) of as-grown crystal. Scanning electron micrograph (right) of etched crystal revealing the incorporated gel fibers.

2. WIMSE Earns Praise in First 3 yearsLara A. Estroff, Cornell University, DMR 0845212 WIMSE President Kunjal Patel accepting the CEAA Award The Women in Materials Science and Engineering (WIMSE) group at Cornell University has had a very successful year. In May, we recieved the Cornell Engineering Alumni Association (CEAA) Best Student Organization Award for our efforts in “fostering a supportive community for women students (both grad and undergrad) in MSE.” Since WIMSE was begun in 2006, the MSE department at Cornell University has seen an increase from ~15% to ~35% of women in our undergraduated classes (see graph). WIMSE’s activities include potluck dinners, career panels, outreach events at the local Science Center, and a cardboard boat race!