Big results: Convergent science accelerates research to market at UNC.

• Position: RESEARCH NORTH CAROLINA: UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL

What if nanotechnology could be used to extract minerals from water so effectively that mining became obsolete? What if it could also offer a low-cost solution to water scarcity all over the world?

Addressing a need that affects over 1.8 billion people worldwide, a team of polymer chemists, computational modelers and engineers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is developing an innovative membrane-based water purification tool that can safely remove a broad range of water contaminants. This novel technology is more energy-efficient and holds promise for large-scale, affordable production.

The project, led by UNC's Applied Physical Science Professor Theo Dingemans, and joined by scientists from Applied Mathematics and the Gillings School of Public Health, is one example of how Carolina is investing in convergent science--using its research strengths to produce practical new technologies, new businesses, and answers to society's most complex challenges.

* A bold approach

With a reputation for cutting-edge science, Carolina ranks as the nation's 11th largest research university. Much of its science is discovery-driven. From biologists studying how cells repair DNA damage, to marine scientists studying forces behind hurricanes that impact coastlines, it involves the careful study, within specific disciplines, of how the world works. Over time these discoveries accumulate, yielding new treatments for cancer, or better disaster plans to save lives and property.

Convergent science flips this model on its head. It starts by identifying problems to be solved and relies on transdisciplinary teams with diverse perspectives to engineer tailored solutions. It represents a radical departure from traditional discipline-based science and a foray into problem-focused collaboration. Its focus on practical outcomes and commercially viable solutions is powering breakthroughs in fields like neuroscience, nutrition, precision health and energy.

* Investments in innovation

Over the past decade, Carolina has steadily increased its emphasis on convergent science. A strategic planning process begun in 2010 gave rise to Innovate Carolina, a comprehensive network of programs that translate UNC's research and entrepreneurial spirit into technologies, business ventures and inventions. Led by the Vice Chancellor for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, Innovate Carolina has fostered a campus-wide entrepreneurship culture, with coursework...