2024 News Archive

Alums inspire collaborative effort through fund for beloved professor

In recognition of Mechanical Engineering Distinguished Professor Emeritus Wally Peters contributions and commitment to students' personal and professional growth, the college has established the Dr. Wally Peters Scholarship Endowment Fund.

Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing announces establishment of the Dr. Barbara Hickman Whye I3 Center

A new student space and endowment at the college will strengthen student resources and further the college's commitment to accessible education.

Doctoral candidate developing contactless sleep monitoring system

Imagine an Alexa-sized wireless device placed on your nightstand could monitor your vital signs, heart rate, breathing and even the body's sleep position. Computer science doctoral candidate Aakriti Adhikari is working toward making this technology a reality.

Agostinelli advances AI techniques for complex pathfinding solutions

Forest Agostinelli is working on a National Science Foundation-funded project that combines two artificial intelligence methods, heuristic search and machine learning, to solve complex problems without human assistance.

Showing passion for college football and nuclear energy

Freshman Harry Weaver did not just bring his "I [Heart] Nuclear Energy" sign to be on TV during ESPN's College GameDay broadcast. He also wanted to share one of his passions.

Berge and Johnson win awards from statewide civil engineering organization

Civil Engineering Associate Professor Nicole Berge and alumna Katie Johnson recently received prestigious awards from the South Carolina Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).

Retired oil industry executive and USC alum Bill Bloking is helping future generations of Gamecocks achieve dreams of their own

The first in his family to attend college, Bill Bloking’s engineering degree prepared him for careers at Exxon and BHP — and for boardrooms around the globe. His William F. Bloking First-Generation Scholars Fund will support Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing students and programs.

Mandal utilizes diamonds for novel radiation detection technology

Electrical Engineering Professor Krishna Mandal began research into developing a groundbreaking advancement in replacing metal contact with diamond and silicon carbide for use in ultraviolet radiation detection technology and nuclear medicine.

Two mechanical engineering professors earn Fellow and Associate Fellow recognition

Two professors from the Department of Mechanical Engineering received significant accolades for their research and contributions from their respective professional organizations.

McRay's research focuses on energy storage systems safety

Chemical engineering Ph.D. candidate Hunter McRay is tackling one of today's biggest safety concerns: electric vehicle battery fires.

Sepahvandi displays passion for research and teaching

Instructor Azadeh Sepahvandi combines her passion for research into restoring and improving damaged tissues with a dedication to foster creativity and encourage her students to take an active role in their learning.

Determining and preventing virus attachment and detachment to surfaces

Civil and Environmental Engineering Associate Professor Shamia Hoque recently started a research project that aims to better understand the mechanisms driving the interaction of viruses within the built environment and surrounding surfaces.

Chemical engineering student pursues research, sustainability and sales

A high school chemistry assignment without any instructions did not deter Justin Jordan from pursuing STEM studies. Rather, it started a passion for chemical engineering.

Alumnus Zack Simpson finds creative outlet in geotechnical space

Zack Simpson knew he would pursue a career in a STEM field. But geotechnical engineering, a branch of civil engineering that focuses on soil and rock mechanics, was not his anticipated path.

A Good Feeling

Civil engineering graduate Deepal Eliatamby left Sri Lanka to find opportunity and freedom. He found it at USC and is now paying it forward.

AI Institute aims to assist in research activities and increased awareness

Within the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing and university community, the Artificial Intelligence Institute of USC provides experts to partner with researchers and groups for training or implementing AI.

The accidental teacher

Instructor Bhavana Ginjupally's decision to study computer science was not driven by a lifelong passion, but rather curiosity and circumstance.

Lee utilizes diverse research experiences for implementing multi-agent systems

The one keyword to represent Junsoo Lee's research is multi-agent systems. He also believes in the importance of bridging people from different backgrounds and providing leadership, which is apparent in his research and work with students.

Doctoral candidate pursues advancement of Alzheimer's disease therapeutics

A two-year co-op with Merck and working alongside Melissa Moss at the college's Protein Aggregation and Neuroinflammation Laboratory is giving doctoral candidate Amy Veihdeffer the resources for advancing the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Preventing cyberattacks of intelligent systems

Professor Vignesh Narayanan from the Artificial Intelligence Institute of the University of South Carolina recently started an NSF-funded research project that aims to understand the vulnerabilities of learning-based controllers and enhance an understanding of possible cyberattacks.

Alumna rises from intern to lead cybersecurity role at NASA

Tamiko Fletcher, computer engineering ’02, didn’t know when she started interning at NASA in 1999 that she’d still be there nearly 25 years later. Now, she's the chief information security officer at John F. Kennedy Space Center and works to to minimize cybersecurity threats to NASA’s ground systems.

Protecting homeless populations through engineering, AI and community outreach

Assistant Professor Erfan Goharian is developing a system of cameras that will be constantly monitored by artificial intelligence to immediately warn homeless communities of flooding.

Bailey aims for new heights in aerospace engineering

Patrick Bailey's fascination with aerospace engineering began with a childhood trip to the Kennedy Space Center, where he witnessed a space shuttle launch that ignited his lifelong passion for aerospace engineering.

Amending guidelines for earthquake-resistant South Carolina bridges

Faculty from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering are currently leading efforts and collaborating with the South Carolina Department of Transportation to ensure the state's bridges are resistant to damage from future earthquakes.

Alumna helps increase STEM careers for women and underrepresented groups

STEM careers are historically male-dominated environments, but alumna Krystal Fowler is paving the way for the next generation of women and underrepresented groups in engineering.

NSF CAREER Award recipient develops real-time machine learning technology for small, low-energy devices

Ramtin Zand's five-year, nearly $600,000 project is expected to produce smaller, faster and smarter machine learning computing systems for use in real-world applications without reliance on large servers.

Generating hydrogen on demand for improved naval vessel performance

Research Assistant Professor Benjamin Meekins recently began an Office of Naval Research-funded project that will use a specific and proven membrane for the seawater electrolysis process to produce hydrogen.

Downey named Fulbright scholar

Mechanical Engineering Associate Professor Austin Downey was recently selected as one of two USC faculty members selected as Fulbright scholars. He will leave in August and serve as a visiting professor at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden.

USC Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing to host battery safety workshop

The 2024 Battery Safety Workshop from August 5-6 will highlight the importance of collaboration and innovation in ensuring the safety of batteries in an increasingly mobile society.

Enabling safe learning in autonomous systems

Since this past January, Electrical Engineering Associate Professor Xiaofeng Wang has been working toward advancing end-to-end safety and performance for learning-enabled autonomous systems in real-world settings.

ONR-sponsored research aims to eliminate biofouling on naval vessels

Marine biofouling is the accumulation of microorganisms on ships' hulls, causing hydrodynamic drag and corrosion. But Associate Professor Tao Wei's current research project is aiming to alleviate the issue by examining the use of two new materials alongside advanced technology for coating.

De Backer inspires innovation and passion for aerospace engineering

Assistant Professor Wout De Backer underscores hands-on learning and collaboration, while inspiring his students with his passion for aircraft design and innovation in composites through additive manufacturing.

Deepa Tilwani: Pioneering AI to transform autism diagnosis

Ph.D. candidate Deepa Tilwani is building on the continued transformation of healthcare by working on research into how AI can be used for early autism diagnosis.

Developing improved and advanced protection against cyberattacks

IIT Professor Jorge Crichigno will begin a research project next month that aims to enhance network security by utilizing new technologies and machine learning to detect and classify malware.

Project underway to train next generation of cyberwarfare professionals

Jorge Crichigno, professor of integrated information technology in the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, is leading a three-year project to prepare a new generation of cyberwarfare professionals.

Introducing USC’s Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing

The University of South Carolina College of Engineering and Computing has a new name that reflects the vision and generosity of generations of the Molinaroli family. The official name, the University of South Carolina Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, was announced on Thursday (June 6) during a signage unveiling ceremony at the college’s Swearingen Engineering Center on Main Street.

Service to a Nation

During his nearly 40-year career, alum Kenneth Bible started in nuclear and mechanical engineering and later made significant impacts on the nation's information technology and cybersecurity.

Navigating two degrees, research and work

Given Luke Reynolds rigorous schedule, he exemplifies effective time management by skillfully navigating the demands of academia, research and industry.

Combining two elements for revolutionary battery technology

Sulfur has received significant attention as a replacement material in lithium-ion batteries and expected to supply a higher energy density. Chemical Engineering Assistant Professor Golareh Jalilvand is one researcher currently working on this revolutionary energy technology.

Improving underground mining safety with millimeter wave technology

In collaboration with researchers at two institutions in India, Assistant Professor Sanjib Sur recently began a project to design and deploy an emerging technology to overcome the hazardous conditions of underground mines.

Jamshidi earns recognition for most influential paper

A paper published 10 years ago by Computer Science and Engineering Assistant Professor Pooyan Jamshidi was recently recognized for its significant impact.

Flying fast into opportunities

Ashley Poyner is rapidly learning all about aerospace. As a first-gen student, she is earning her bachelor of science degree in engineering in only three years. A lot of doors also opened thanks to her acceptance into the Boeing Accelerated Leadership Program.

Lost but not forgotten to history

Before there were stat programs, media guides, and web sites, at lot of college sports history was kept pencil to paper. As a university grows, that can make it hard to keep history straight. That’s the case with Lindell Bradley, who was recruited to play baseball at South Carolina in 1967, which made him the first black varsity athlete in any sport at the school. Unfortunately, Bradley’s place in Gamecock history fell through the cracks … until now.

Narayanan seeks to enhance safety, efficiency of dynamic systems through AI

Assistant Professor Vignesh Narayanan's research focuses on the interaction between humans and dynamic systems to prevent such systems from unsafe behavior as they change over time.

Three CEC students represent USC's Goldwater Scholars honorees

Earlier this month, the Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation awarded 438 scholarships nationwide. Of that number, the University of South Carolina's three recipients are all from the College of Engineering and Computing.

Sullivan Award winner has passion for serving others

A passion for helping others has led Shannon DePratter to participate in several service organizations while also completing her degree in biomedical engineering in just three years. The Newberry, South Carolina, native is one of two winners of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award — the university’s highest student honor. She also is a member of the South Carolina Honors College.

Inspiring the next generation of civil engineers

Working in the civil engineering field for nearly 35 years, Jeff Mulliken's contributions have been through his work, leadership and mentorship.

CEC seniors to be recognized on Awards Day

CEC students will be recognized for their outstanding achievements at the USC Awards Day ceremony on Thursday, April 18.

Harik receives prestigious award from SC Academy of Sciences

For his passion and dedication to introducing and highlighting scientific topics to various audiences throughout South Carolina, Ramy Harik was named winner of the 2024 Governor's Award for Excellence in Scientific Awareness.

In Memoriam: John Monnier, Ph.D.

The CEC was saddened to learn of the death of Chemical Engineering Professor and National Academy of Engineering member John Monnier.

CEC honors distinguished alumni

The CEC took time to recognize distinguished alumni and thank donors at the Alumni Awards and Benefactor Dinner at the Pastides Alumni Center.

USC team selected for NSF project to address equitable water solutions

A team led by CEC faculty was one of 15 multidisciplinary teams selected for phase one of a $9.8 million National Science Foundation program, which aims to develop innovative technologies and solutions to improve U.S. freshwater systems.

Bringing decades of IT experience to the classroom

Throughout his career, IIT Instructor Patrick Wright has taught students aged 18 to 70 in professional environments, continuing education classes and a university setting. His greatest satisfaction is not in the teaching, but what happens after they leave the classroom.

CEC establishes legacy society after beloved professor and his wife

The CEC is excited to announce the establishment of the Dr. Joseph and Geneva Gibbons Legacy Society, which will not only celebrate the Gibbons' impact but also serve as a testament to the power of philanthropy in transforming educational landscapes.

Engineering Alumnus Aaron LaBerge creates magic, connection at Disney

An experimental project led by a team of USC engineering researchers could lead to a more efficient process for converting landfill gases into cleaner fuel — and simultaneously deal with a silicone-based compound called siloxane that has become problematic for landfills.

Zand pursues a passion for research

Assistant Professor Ramtin Zand considered a career in academia because he was familiar with industry and wanted to innovate and have more freedom to work on projects.

New pathway to MBA for engineering and computing students

USC’s College of Engineering and Computing and the Darla Moore School of Business established a new 4+1 pathway partnership in 2024. This unique collaboration offers students the opportunity to earn an undergraduate degree from engineering and computing and a master’s degree from the Moore School in five years.

Downey receives prestigious award from SC Academy of Sciences

For his contributions to science, Austin Downey was named the winner of the 2024 Governor's Young Scientist Award for Excellence in Scientific Research.

McNair Center to host Symposium on Automated Composites Manufacturing

Top researchers in the field of composites will be in Columbia for the sixth annual International Symposium on Automated Composites Manufacturing from March 4-8.

Cleaning Up

Engineering professor Sarah Gassman works to improve road pavement design

Engineering professor Sarah Gassman and her team collect road performance data, the rutting and the cracking, and feed that data into a model that gives us better predictions for how a pavement will perform.

Full steam ahead

Engineering teams notch progress in first year of alternative fuel research for Navy.

From Student to Mentor

Despite being part of an underrepresented group in her field, Instructor Rasha Karakchi's message to aspiring female engineers is one of empowerment: to challenge themselves, pursue their passions, and realize their full potential.

New center to focus on credibility assessment research and projects

The College of Engineering and Computing is now home to a new center that will focus on high-tech, non-invasive technology for polygraphs and credibility assessment.

Staying on track for improved rail safety

Ph.D. candidate Brennan Gedney is targeting a critical problem in railway infrastructure maintenance: inefficient or rushed manual inspections that often miss small types of damage. He recently received a scholarship and award to help supplement his work.

CEC graduate makes her mark as UCOR's first female chief engineer

Christie Sudduth was recently named chief engineer for United Cleanup Oak Ridge, the lead contractor for U.S. Department of Energy nuclear waste cleanup efforts. She is the first female to occupy the position.

Lowering costs and improving efficiency for battery storage

To better understand an emerging technology, several CEC professors are leading research into developing high fidelity digital models for large scale energy storage batteries.

In Memoriam: Wilfred Kenneth Humphries, Ph.D.

The CEC was saddened to learn of the death of USC alum and Dean Emeritus and Civil and Environmental Engineering Professor Emeritus Wilfred Kenneth Humphries.

Teaching, motivating and helping shape students' future

Acting as a bridge between students, faculty and resources, Silke Henrich helps students navigate challenges in and outside the classroom.

A co-opportunity for real-world experiences

Most students try to avoid delaying their graduation, but for chemical engineering junior Sean Budke, trading an extra year of studies for a cooperative education program (co-op) was too good to pass up.

CEC to lead new Institute for Extreme Semiconductor Chips

As the materials used for semiconductor chips technology have evolved, the College of Engineering and Computing is overseeing a new institute tasked with conducting pioneering interdisciplinary research into next generation extreme semiconductor chips.

USC's key contribution for developing more flexible and cost-effective nuclear technology

The Department of Energy is currently funding research in the College of Engineering and Computing's General Atomics Center to provide critical information that companies' and their suppliers need to bring their molten salt reactor designs to market.

Lee plans waste heat conversion research for NSF CAREER Award

As climate change concerns continue to rise, the efficient recycling of waste heat is an urgent scientific challenge. Mechanical Engineering Assistant Professor Dongkyu Lee's upcoming research will focus on a conversion process, which aims to transform waste heat into useable electric power for clean and sustainable energy.

Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing