DMREF: NSF-DFG: AI-Driven Design of Superconducting Materials for Magnets (AISuper)

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $2,000,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Non-technical abstract: This project will accelerate the discovery of new superconducting materials through a transformative approach that combines artificial intelligence (AI), quantum theory, and experimental synthesis. Superconductors are essential for technologies ranging from MRI systems and high-field magnets to quantum computing and sustainable energy. Yet analysis of known compounds suggests that only a small fraction of potential superconductors may have been discovered. This project aims to significantly expand the number of known superconductors and identify materials optimized for practical applications—specifically those with high critical temperatures and magnetic fields, ductility for wire fabrication, and three-dimensional electronic structures for enhanced performance. A core educational mission will train a group of students in AI-driven materials research and develop hands-on experiment kits for K–12 classrooms to promote STEM engagement. Partnerships with national laboratories, industry, and international collaborators will ensure timely and impactful transition of discoveries to real-world applications. Technical abstract: The research integrates two complementary AI methods to accelerate superconductor discovery. Property prediction models based on graph neural networks will estimate superconducting characteristics—such as electron-phonon spectral functions, critical temperatures, and critical fields—directly from crystal structures. In parallel, ge

Key facts

NSF award ID
2522891
Awardee
University of Florida (FL)
SAM.gov UEI
NNFQH1JAPEP3
PI
Richard G Hennig
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
International Partnerships, (MGI) Materials Genome Initiative, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Materials Under Extreme Conditions, Materials Data, Materials AI, OFFICE OF MULTIDISCIPLINARY AC, GERMANY (F.R.G.), NSF-INTERNAT COOP IN MATERIALS RES-OTHER, DMREF
Estimated total
$2,000,000
Funds obligated
$2,000,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
10/01/2025 → 09/30/2029