A Tennessee-based chemical company is going to be doing even more of its research right here in the Triangle. 

Eastman Chemical has signed a research deal with a second Triangle university in five months, the latest being with UNC-CH.

It covers a “minimum” of $1.5 million over six years.

However, the collaboration is worth much less than a $10 million deal signed last September with N.C. State. As part of that contract, Eastman is opening a 2,000 square foot lab at Centennial Campus this year.

The UNC deal provides funding for research into chemistry and materials research.

Eastman scientists will work with UNC scientists and students.

Eastman Chemical Company announced the signing of a master agreement with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to conduct research in chemistry and materials science.

“We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership brings to Eastman,” said Dr. Greg W. Nelson, senior vice president and chief technology officer at Eastman Chemical Company. “Teaming with a leading university like UNC furthers Eastman’s commitment to world-class open innovation that brings new ideas and technologies to market more quickly than traditional approaches.”

Eastman will submit research proposals to UNC faculty, and selected responses will receive funding.