**This is a new VIP that will be starting Fall 2026**
What is the ambitious goal of this project?
We’re studying how to make new materials from old materials (i.e., trash), how to design and create new classes of materials that are easily recycled, and how to lessen the impact of materials on the environment. There are several projects from which to choose, including projects that focus on non-recyclable and hard-to-recycle plastic waste, and projects that involve inventing new materials that are made from natural, biodegradable components.
Students have options of projects geared towards artistic expression, to projects that focus on materials processing and measurement, to other projects that solve a specific waste problem. Additional projects are available that focus on gathering information to understand the current state-of-the-art.
Students will work across disciplines, and often will collaborate with stakeholders in the community, such as with leaders in the City of Boise or Ada County, or with professionals at various local companies. Broad perspectives and collaborative efforts are critical for addressing the challenges of creating value from our “waste” materials.
Experience Gained
Students will learn:
1. What types of materials are considered waste, how much of this waste is being generated, and generally what is being done with the waste.
2. What researchers are doing to address these waste issues, with particular emphasis on the materials involved in a specific project.
3. The challenges involved in making something useful and/or beautiful from waste materials.
4. The specific physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of a target material, and how to manipulate these properties.
5. How to communicate with others across disciplines.
6. How to communicate as professionals with professionals in the community.
7. How to design, execute, and complete a project.
Methodologies and/or Technologies used to achieve project goals
- Case studies
- Design thinking
- Engineering lab
- Laboratory testing
- Market research
- Qualitative research methods
- Quantitative research methods
- Writing
Preferred Preparation
Students from all skill levels are welcome.
Majors or Interests Needed
- Any/All
- Art
- Bachelor of Applied Science
- Chemistry-Biochemistry
- Construction Management
- Environmental Studies Program
- Marketing
- Materials Science & Engineering
- Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering
VIP Coach Information
Professor Scott Phillips has developed recyclable polymers for 17 years. Over the past nine years, his research has shifted towards developing new composite materials from waste streams, inventing new classes of materials from natural starting materials, and creating solutions for repurposing existing waste.
Course Information
VIP 200, VIP 400, VIP 401 or VIP 500
Full semester course. Choose to enroll in 1, 2, or 3 credits.
Interested in joining this team?
For more information and to request a permission number to register, contact Dr. Phillips at sphillips@boisestate.edu. You can also complete this interest form and someone will contact you. Check out this page for tips on contacting a professor.
To register
To register search by Subject: Vertically Integrated Projects, read the project description to find the right section of VIP 200, 400, 401, or 500. Use permission number, here are instructions Add with a permission number