MSU microbiologist Eric Boyd talks about his research, which the Department of Energy awarded a $3.3 million grant. The U.S. Department of Energy will invest $3.3 million into Montana State University research focused on the critical ingredients for next-generation batteries and high-tech equipment. U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm announced the funding during a video conference with MSU researcher Eric Boyd and the stateâs U.S. senators, Democrat Jon Tester and Republican Steve Daines. In her comments, the secretary focused on one particular mineral, cobalt, a key ingredient in batteries. Boydâs work touches on mining methods that are less harmful to the environment.