Driving the Future of Scientific Discovery

The NSF Center for Accelerated Photocatalysis (CAPS) deploys self-driving labs (SDLs) to accelerate discovery for reactions which use light as a catalyst in challenging chemical transformations. CAPs is supported by an NSF Centers for Chemical Innovation (CCI) Program Phase I grant, totaling $1.8 million over the next three years.

NC State has long sat in the driver’s seat when it comes to SDLs and scientific innovation. SDLs integrate artificial intelligence (AI), lab automation and robotics to revolutionize experimental sciences and scientific research. NC State’s mission in this area is to establish universal SDL testbeds for the physical and life sciences as the foundation of future research and educational infrastructure.

Recent Announcements

News and updates

CAPS Graduate Assistant Selected to Represent NC State in Regional 3MT Competition

Azka Arshad, a graduate research assistant in the Center for Accelerated Photocatalysis at NC State, placed second in the university’s 11th annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. She has been selected to represent the university in the regional 3MT competition.

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CAPS’ Phil Castellano Receives 2025 Outstanding Research Award

With the award, Castellano, along with Bill Rand, Melanie Simpson and Ross Sozzani will be automatically inducted into the Research Leadership Academy.

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NC State Receives NSF Grant to Establish the Center for Accelerated Photocatalysis

The National Science Foundation (NSF) announced that North Carolina State University will direct a center that deploys self-driving labs to accelerate discovery for reactions which use light as a catalyst in challenging chemical transformations. The NSF Center for Accelerated Photocatalysis is supported by an NSF Centers for Chemical Innovation Program Phase I grant, totaling $1.8 million over the next three years.

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New AI Collaboration Aims to Accelerate R&D of Specialty Chemicals

A new research collaboration between Eastman and NC State’s Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering aims to significantly accelerate the research and development (R&D) of new specialty chemicals — chemicals that improve manufactured products and processes. This latest project builds on five years of work between the department and Eastman, integrating advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), catalysis and robotics to build a ‘self-driving lab.’

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