NSF East Asia and Pacific Summer Institute for FY 2012 in Singapore

Loosley Alexander J, Providence RI

Investigators

Abstract

This action funds Alexander J Loosley of Brown University to conduct a research project, entitled "Studying how immune system cells detect the difference between soft and stiff tissue," during the summer of 2012 at the National University of Singapore in Singapore. The host scientist is Prof. Michael P Sheetz. The Intellectual Merit of the research project is in using traction force measurements to study the mechanisms that drive force generation and rigidity detection in human immune system cells. The Broader Impacts of an EAPSI fellowship include providing the Fellow a first-hand research experience outside the U.S.; an introduction to the science, science policy, and scientific infrastructure of the respective location; and an orientation to the society, culture and language. These activities meet the NSF goal to educate for international collaborations early in the career of its scientists, engineers, and educators, thus ensuring a globally aware U.S. scientific workforce.