At ������Ƶ, innovation drives achievement. Dr. Javad Baqersad, associate professor of Mechanical Engineering, exemplifies this ethos through two recent accomplishments: securing a $50,000 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to explore the commercialization of cutting-edge vibration measurement technology and receiving a top honor from the Society for Experimental Mechanics (SEM) for his contributions to the field.

Dr. Baqersad’s NSF I-Corps grant — Translation Potential of an Optical Vibration Measurement Technology for System Monitoring and Digital Twin Development — focuses on bridging academic innovation with industry needs. This one-year project will evaluate market demand for advanced vibration measurement tools with applications such as detecting misalignment or wear in industrial machinery, monitoring the structural health of bridges and aircraft, and optimizing the performance of wind turbines.  These innovations address challenges in sectors like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, such as improving vehicle noise and vibration performance, ensuring the reliability of jet engines, and predicting equipment failures to reduce downtime.

This NSF new grant builds upon a previous NSF Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) grant of more than $577,000, which Dr. Baqersad secured in 2023 to acquire a 3D scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (3DSLDV). The instrument uses coherent light to measure the velocity of vibrating objects, enabling high-fidelity analysis of vibrations in high-temperature, lightweight, and rotating structures.

“Our goal is to connect academic research with real-world challenges,” Dr. Baqersad said. “This grant allows us to engage directly with industry experts, identify their needs, and tailor our technology to address those challenges.”

Through the NSF program, Dr. Baqersad and his team interviewed more than 70 thought leaders at companies like Ford, GM, and Consumers Energy to assess market demand. Insights from these conversations will shape future initiatives, such as NSF Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (GOALI) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) applications, and may pave the way for establishing an Industry-University Research Center at Kettering.

Dr. Baqersad’s research does more than push boundaries; it prepares the next generation of innovators. Graduate student Arjun Gupta is integral to the project, connecting with industry professionals and bringing their needs into focus. “This experience is invaluable for students,” Dr. Baqersad said. “It prepares them to tackle industry challenges with confidence and expertise.”

Recognition from SEM further solidifies Dr. Baqersad’s place among the leaders in structural dynamics research. At the 2025 SEM International Modal Analysis Conference, he will be honored for his “outstanding research accomplishments in experimental structural dynamics.” It is one of only three awards SEM presents each year. 

“It’s an honor to see my work recognized by such a respected organization,” Dr. Baqersad said.

Dr. Baqersad's work has a tangible impact, from noise reduction in vehicles and seismic protection in buildings to potentially detecting skin cancer. With more than 100 publications, a patent, and a dedication to mentorship, his contributions embody ������Ƶ’s mission to produce accomplished leaders who influence global industries.

Looking ahead, Dr. Baqersad envisions creating new research centers at Kettering, strengthening partnerships, and giving students unmatched opportunities to lead and innovate. “We aim to create opportunities for students and industry partners to collaborate on projects that address practical challenges, deliver tangible results, and directly contribute to advancements in industries,” he said.

At ������Ƶ, where excellence is built into every project, Dr. Baqersad’s achievements showcase the power of relentless innovation and real-world application.

������Ƶ is known for shaping the leaders who tackle tomorrow’s biggest challenges, and Giovanni Cavataio ’25 is proving that legacy true. A senior double majoring in Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry, Giovanni is spearheading critical research into how microplastics infiltrate plant matter and, in turn, potentially enter our food supply. His innovative work aims to pave the way for more comprehensive studies.

Microplastics, the microscopic remnants of larger plastic waste, are becoming an increasing concern for environmental health. While the impact of microplastics on aquatic ecosystems has been widely studied, their presence in plants is less understood — and the exact health effects of microplastics are still largely unknown. Giovanni’s work is set to change that.

In state-of-the-art labs at Kettering, Giovanni meticulously analyzes plant samples under a fluorescence microscope, revealing the concentration and distribution of microplastics in various plant tissues — stems, leaves, and flowers. To filter out the microplastic, he uses a chemical solution to break down plant cells, making them visible for analysis.

Giovanni has a clear hypothesis that drives his research: Plant stems will exhibit higher concentrations of microplastics than other parts like the leaves and flowers. His reasoning is simple: Plant stems have extensive vascular systems, allowing them to trap more microplastics. But simple or not, the impact of Giovanni’s research extends far beyond the laboratory and right to the food on our dinner plates. Since plants are a significant part of our diet and are consumed by livestock we eat, understanding microplastic contamination in plants is vital for assessing potential risks to human health.

“We don't fully understand the severity or how exactly microplastics impact biological function, but this research is helping us to better move forward in determining how to deal with the situation,” Giovanni says. “You can't really get microplastics out of the ecosystem. The best thing that we can do is try to prevent them from contaminating future organisms.”

As we continue to grapple with the challenges posed by microplastics, studies like Giovanni’s remind us of the importance of innovation in protecting our planet and our health.

������Ƶ is now one of only a very small number of the nation’s top engineering-focused universities to offer the industry-leading semiconductor software and electronic design automation (EDA) suite to faculty and undergraduate students.

FLINT, Mich. - ������Ƶ is pleased to announce it has received a substantial software gift from Synopsys, a global leader in comprehensive semiconductor software and electronic design automation (EDA) tools. With this gift, Kettering faculty and students, even as undergraduates, will have direct and unlimited access to the same comprehensive engineering design and development software suite and tools used by the world’s leading industries to design, simulate, and verify integrated semiconductor systems.  Kettering students will now be able to graduate with deep skills and firsthand experience with the very same technology used and trusted by top innovators like NVIDIA, Google, Samsung, and Intel to create next-generation semiconductor systems and devices.

������Ƶ is aggressively investing in the expansion and development of its semiconductor engineering education and training capabilities in response to the growing market demand in Michigan and across the United States. Combined with curricular innovations currently awaiting final approval, this gift, which includes 50 seat licenses to the entire software suite, provides an important foundation for the creation of a center of excellence in semiconductor engineering and technologies at the University. ������Ƶ is one of only a very small number of the nation's top engineering-focused universities to have this type of access to Synopsys’ comprehensive software suite. This industry-leading software will also be integrated into the University’s Industry 4.0 Lab — a hub for advanced research and technology on the campus. 

“������Ƶ's partnership with Synopsys makes it possible for our students to become proficient in these industry-standard systems,” said ������Ƶ President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “Direct access to Synopsys’ advanced electronic design automation tools enables our students to design, simulate, and validate complex semiconductor systems — skills that are indispensable for excelling in the rapidly evolving semiconductor, mechatronics, and battery manufacturing sectors. This positions them to be significant contributors and leaders in developing the next generation of semiconductors and related technologies immediately upon graduation, if not before.”

Kettering and Synopsys also share a longstanding industry connection with Bob Kagle ’78. Kagle, widely regarded as one of the most successful venture capitalists in the history of Silicon Valley and founder of Benchmark Capital, was among the earliest investors in Synopsys. “Kettering is taking a remarkable step forward by putting Synopsys in the classroom, giving students hands-on access to tools that define the future of technology,” said Kagle. “I am proud to see Kettering leading in a field so critical to global progress and am thrilled to support this transformational partnership.”

Semiconductor technologies are the backbone of the world’s fastest-growing industries, including autonomous vehicles, electric mobility, and artificial intelligence, all areas in which Kettering has strong education, cooperative, and research programs. With the Synopsys partnership, ������Ƶ is poised to lead the way in these sectors, driving technological breakthroughs and ensuring our graduates are equipped to lead.

������Ƶ has, for over 100 years, played an integral role in educating highly talented engineers and industry leaders for a wide range of industries and technologies. It is among the reasons Kettering was selected as the only private institution to be part of MEDC’s Michigander Scholars Program, for which the semiconductor industry plays a significant role. 

“Kettering doesn’t just anticipate the future — we actively shape it,” said Dr. McMahan. “Our unwavering commitment to experiential education through strategic industry partnerships ensures that our students are prepared to lead from the front, solving tomorrow’s challenges with the expertise and innovative mindset demanded by today’s most advanced industries.” 

������Ƶ is proud to announce it received a $465,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish a new Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site. This substantial grant will fund a groundbreaking program dedicated to advancing research in control and sensing for autonomous vehicles.

Led by Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Diane Peters, associate professor of Mechanical Engineering, and Co-PI Dr. Rui Zhu, assistant professor of Computer Science, the REU program will offer undergraduate students from across the country the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research on Kettering’s campus over the next three years.

The REU site will welcome 10 undergraduate students each summer for a 10-week immersive experience. This program is designed to expose participants to the exciting field of autonomous vehicles. This discipline leverages both mechanical engineering and computer science to drive innovation. Students will work on various research projects related to control systems and sensing technologies, gaining valuable hands-on experience. The ������Ƶ/GM Mobility Research Center (MRC) will play a crucial role in the program, providing students access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

“Receiving this NSF grant is a tremendous opportunity for us to support and mentor undergraduates from institutions where research opportunities may be limited,” said Dr. Peters. “Our aim is not only to provide these students with a solid research foundation but also to foster their growth as future STEM professionals.”

Applications for the REU program will be open to undergraduates nationwide. The program strongly emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility, targeting students from institutions without extensive research facilities, including community colleges. In addition to their research work, participants will engage in professional development activities, including industry tours and presentations. The program will also offer financial support, covering housing, travel, and a weekly stipend, ensuring students can fully focus on their research without financial stress.

“This grant allows us to make a significant impact by bringing together a diverse group of students and providing them with a comprehensive research experience,” Dr. Peters said. “We are committed to creating an environment where students can thrive academically and personally while also engaging with our broader academic community.”

Students selected for the program will be matched with research projects and faculty mentors that align with their interests and career goals. The program will culminate in a poster session, allowing students to showcase their work and gain experience presenting their research. Ultimately, participants could see their work published in academic journals or presented at conferences.

Applications for the program are expected to open in December 2024 via the NSF Education and Training Application (ETAP). For more information, visit . 

About the National Science Foundation (NSF) 

The U.S. National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 “to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense.”​ With an annual budget of over $8 billion, NSF is the funding source for approximately 20% of all federally supported basic research conducted by America’s colleges and universities.

The inaugural Industry Research Summit — the first occasion to bring collaborators together at ������Ƶ under the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) program's Enabling Meaningful External Research Growth in Emergent Technologies (EMERGE) grant — was held on May 17, 2024. 

The EMERGE Cohort includes ������Ƶ, University of the Incarnate Word, University of Northern Colorado, and Western Carolina University. Cohort members share a common vision to EMERGE as recognized partners in research and development, translating research into practice, and in talent development in emerging technology. The U.S. NSF awards EPIIC grants of three years in length to up to 50 institutions each year. Each award is worth up to $400,000 per recipient institution. 

In line with the EMERGE goals, the Industry Research Summit featured distinguished speakers and engaging discussions to enhance partnerships between ������Ƶ and industry stakeholders. Representing General Motors, Dr. Jeff Abell ’85 delivered the keynote address, emphasizing successful collaboration models. 

“The phrase, ‘Necessity is the mother of invention,’ is really the starting point for industry. We will not work on projects or research or partnerships that do not fulfill one of our needs,” said Dr. Abell, a former member of the Kettering faculty. “And from my own university experience, it's very difficult to know what these needs are unless you are very close to an industry partner.”

During the daylong Summit, attendees engaged in interactive discussions and breakout sessions to enhance ������Ƶ's industry collaborations through classroom-based and cutting-edge research. The event culminated in a poster exhibit where faculty showcased their research goals, identifying opportunities for future partnerships.

Dr. Diane Peters, ������Ƶ Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, is the principal investigator of the EMERGE project. “The Industry Research Summit is a key part of our activities since it serves as a springboard for all the other things we want to achieve,” Dr. Peters said. “It's enabled us to get input from multiple voices on how to accomplish our goals and given us some great new ideas to add to the activities we set forth in the original plans.” 

Dr. Scott Grasman, Dean of Kettering’s College of Engineering, and Dr. Javad Baqersad, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, are co-principal investigators. 

The insights and recommendations from all Summit participants will be compiled into a report that will be a blueprint for ������Ƶ's Year 2 plans for the NSF EPIIC grant. Proposed initiatives include establishing a graduate internship program and developing opportunities for faculty to engage in industry-focused research during non-teaching periods.

One example of what is possible through the NSF EPIIC program is ������Ƶ’s OpenRoad partnership. Inside ������Ƶ’s AMPED Lab, OpenRoad, a manufacturer of portable range boosters for electric vehicles, collaborates with Kettering students and professors to break new ground in EVs. To learn more about the OpenRoad partnership, visit .

������Ƶ announced today that Dr. Lisa Gandy, an Associate Professor of Computer Science, Her study focuses on the market migration trends of women medical researchers leaving academia.

Dr. Gandy’s study addresses the critical underrepresentation of women as Principal Investigators in clinical trials, which she links to a corresponding reduction in women participating in these trials, ultimately affecting the quality of cancer care delivered to female patients. Leveraging her expertise in data science, particularly in natural language processing and machine learning, Dr. Gandy utilized LinkedIn data to trace the career movements of women in the field.

“Social sciences and data analysis really work hand in hand. For instance, in this paper, we explore statistical differences in grants received, papers published, and whether women stay in the clinical research space,” Dr. Gandy said. “Now that we have shown there is a statistically significant difference, a social scientist can do interviews, etc, and really tease apart why these disparities exist.”

Dr. Gandy’s publication in "Cancer Cell" signifies a significant advancement in addressing critical issues in the oncology field and illustrates ������Ƶ's ongoing dedication to cutting-edge research and societal betterment.

About “Cancer Cell”

"Cancer Cell" is a preeminent journal within the scientific community dedicated to publishing pivotal advances in cancer research and oncology. The journal is committed to advancing our understanding of naturally occurring cancers, primarily focusing on manuscripts that offer significant insights into pressing questions in the field. It is known for its emphasis on translational research that bridges experimental science with clinical applications.

Maintaining a rigorous selection process and upholding high scientific standards, "Cancer Cell" contributes profoundly to advancing cancer research, ensuring that each publication enhances our collective capability to fight cancer more effectively.