UND and Vorbeck Materials Partner for Advanced Materials and Defense Research, Senator Kevin Cramer Presides
The University of North Dakota (UND) and Vorbeck Materials have formalized a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on research in advanced materials, aerospace, unmanned systems, and defense. The agreement was signed on November 4 at the 2026 UND Space Operations Summit in Grand Forks, with U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer presiding over the ceremony. This partnership aims to combine UND's research strengths in aerospace, autonomous systems, and national security with Vorbeck Materials' expertise in advanced materials, product development, and manufacturing. Vorbeck Materials, established in 2006, specializes in graphene-based technologies for military, aerospace, first responder, and commercial applications, and recently opened a manufacturing facility in Grand Forks. The collaboration will explore joint research initiatives, technology development, workforce training programs, and opportunities for securing federal funding. No specific projects have been announced yet, but the focus is on moving prom...