UNL's Jacobberger wins prestigious Goldwater Scholarship

Released on 04/22/2010, at 2:00 AM
Office of University Communications
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Lincoln, Neb., April 22nd, 2010 —
Robert Jacobberger
Robert Jacobberger

Robert Jacobberger, a chemical and biomolecular engineering student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is the winner of a 2010 Goldwater Scholarship. The prestigious program awards approximately 300 scholarships per year throughout the nation to help develop highly qualified scientists, mathematicians, and engineers.

Jacobberger, a junior from Omaha, said he plans to use the scholarship to obtain a Ph.D. in materials science and engineering.

"In the future, I want to conduct research on the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials," Jacobberger said. "I also want to explore the applications of these materials by integrating them into devices that will improve the performance of existing technology. I want to teach at the university level and influence students to pursue careers in science and engineering."

He already conducts research through UNL's Undergraduate Creative Activities and Research Experiences (UCARE) program with professors Chin Li Cheung in the Department of Chemistry and Fereydoon Namavar at University of Nebraska Medical Center. They explore nanomaterials synthesis for incorporation into biomedical devices; one focus is surfaces for implants, and how to increase cell growth and decrease formation of harmful biofilms. He also pursues research on cold-field emission devices and solar cells, using electrical engineering lab facilities.

"In my UCARE research, I learned how to apply the scientific process to solve complex problems," he said. "I have studied the synthesis of nanostructured materials with unique electrical properties and their incorporation into devices. Currently, I am working on the synthesis or lanthanum hexaboride one-dimensional nanowires. After I make these materials, I incorporate the lanthanum hexaboride nanowires into a cold field emission device and test its performance. I have also learned how labs at universities function in general. My UCARE experience has helped narrow my focus on what kind of research I want to do in the future."

Jacobberger praised his engineering studies that offer problem-solving skills and allow him to apply his broad interests in chemistry, physics and math.

"I attribute my success to my research advisers, Dr. Li Cheung and Dr. Namavar, for teaching me how to use the scientific process to solve complex problems," he said "My chemical engineering adviser, Dr. James Hendrix, has helped me succeed academically. Also, my family has been very supportive in helping me achieve my goals.

"And, I am grateful to have had exceptional teachers at my high school, Millard North, who influenced me to pursue a career in math and science. Without all of the help and advice I have received from these people, I would not have been able to succeed."

Winning a Goldwater is something Jacobberger said he will never forget.

"I was really excited," he said. "It made me feel like my hard work during the last few years had paid off."

The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, established by Congress in 1986, provides up to $7,500 per year for educational expenses to sophomores and juniors who intend to pursue careers in mathematics, the natural sciences, or engineering. The Goldwater Foundation seeks students in mathematics or the sciences who display intellectual curiosity and intensity and possess potential for significant future contributions in their chosen field. Universities are allowed to nominate only four undergraduate students per year.

Two UNL students were named as honorable mention in the Goldwater competition: Laila Gharzai of Lincoln, a mathematics and individualized program of study major, and Stephanie Berger of Sioux Falls, S.D., a biological systems engineering major.

WRITERS: Carole Wilbeck, College of Engineering, (402) 472-0451; and
Kelly Bartling, University Communications, (402) 472-2059

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