Strategic Understanding for Premier Education and Research Agreement
Idaho National Laboratory and Boise State University SUPER Agreement
Boise State University and Idaho National Laboratory (INL) have launched a groundbreaking collaboration under the Strategic Understanding for Premier Education and Research (SUPER) Agreement. This initiative strengthens research partnerships to address some of the most pressing energy and security challenges of our time.
With a five-year framework in place, this agreement fosters deeper engagement between Boise State students, faculty and INL researchers to advance innovations in key areas of national and global importance.
Advanced Materials and Manufacturing for Extreme Environments
This research explores the discovery, development and testing of materials designed to withstand the harshest conditions: ultra-low and high temperatures, extreme pressure, radiation and corrosive chemicals.
These advancements support:
Next-generation nuclear reactor components
High-entropy alloys and radiation-resistant materials
Quantum materials and microelectronics
High-temperature semiconductors and metamaterials
Secure and Resilient Energy Systems
Ensuring the security and resilience of our nation’s energy infrastructure is a critical focus of this agreement.
Researchers are working on:
Cyber-informed design to prevent and mitigate cyberattacks
AI-driven solutions for infrastructure protection
System resilience strategies to maintain stability during disruptions
Cross-sector collaboration to safeguard critical national assets
Why this matters
Advancing our communities in the Treasure Valley, Idaho and beyond
The SUPER Agreement brings together the expertise and resources of Boise State and INL to accelerate innovation in fields essential to national security, economic prosperity and energy dominance.
“Boise State has rapidly grown and advanced our research enterprise, particularly in these areas that are so critical for Idaho and our nation.” – Dr. Marlene Tromp, Boise State President
“Research in these areas is critical to accelerating our nation’s energy, manufacturing, and technology sectors for the benefit of the American people.” – John Wagner, INL Director
This partnership is more than research—it’s about impact, ensuring our energy systems and materials science evolve to meet the needs of the future.
Looking ahead
As the SUPER Agreement unfolds over the next five years, both institutions will continue leveraging their strengths to produce transformative research and real-world solutions. From Idaho to the global stage, the work being done here will shape the industries of tomorrow.
“This strategic partnership between INL and Boise State will create an economic engine for Idaho by accelerating research, innovation and commercialization of materials and technologies that will secure our energy infrastructure for years to come. Boise State students will be especially well positioned to become leaders and entrepreneurs in these fields, with access to world-class educational resources and research infrastructure.”
