This consortium was formed based on the generous funds provided by the Department of Energy’s EPSCoR Program managed by Dr. Matesh Varma, DOE. Total funding is $7,200,000 over the course of six years - with 50% of these funds provided by DOE and the balance by the State of Mississippi. In August of 2000, the Consortium received its first incremental funding. This website is intended to provide an open audience with information concerning our research efforts and the capabilities of our group.