Mentions
2026
September
He receives 2026 Global Distinguished Engineer Award
European Academy of Engineering
BME’s Bin He was among 13 laureates to receive the 2026 Global Distinguished Engineer Award for his contributions to neuroengineering, functional brain imaging, brain-computer interfaces and non-invasive neuromodulation. The award recognizes exceptional engineering leadership, original innovation, and sustained contributions in the field that advance technology and scientific excellence for the benefit of society.
Samaras quoted on data center expansion
Scientific American
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras was quoted in Scientific American about the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure. “Companies are making a decision that it’s in their best interest to go as fast as possible because every day that they’re not online, they would be losing potential revenue,” Samaras said.
Samaras quoted on circular approach to parks and urban spaces
Forbes
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras was quoted in Forbes on how a circular economy approach could benefit parks and urban spaces. Samaras pointed to building construction and demolition debris as an area needing more attention, noting that two to three billion tons of the material are generated worldwide each year, which often end up in landfills instead of being recycled. Much of what’s built today will still be in service decades from now, Samaras said, and making sure it performs then is “a primary objective of good design and climate resilience.”
Adams discusses the deadly impact of heat and data centers
Sierra Club
Data centers use diesel generators as emergency power sources, but these generators also release high amounts of pollution. CEE/EPP’s Peter Adams spoke with Sierra Club about the effects that data center generators could have on surrounding communities, sharing his findings that if data centers get their power from diesel generators instead of the grid, they could cause around 500 additional premature deaths per year in the US.
Samaras quoted on AI expansion in Pennsylvania
The New York Times
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras was quoted in The New York Times about the status of AI growth and data center expansion in Pennsylvania. “Data centers cause real challenges in terms of energy use, emissions, water usage, community issues, and nobody is managing it,” said Samaras.
August
Grossmann awarded 2026 Saul Gass Award for Expository Writing
INFORMS
ChemE’s Ignacio Grossmann was recently selected to receive the 2026 INFORMS Saul Gass Award for Expository Writing. In San Francisco this November, the INFORMS Annual Meeting will be held, where the award will be formally bestowed.
Kainerstorfer elected to SPIE board of directors
SPIE
BME’s Jana Kainerstorfer was recently elected to serve on SPIE’s board of directors. SPIE is an international society for optics and photonics, where engineers, scientists, students, and business professionals work to advance light-based science and technology.
Research from Anna and Walker informs oil spill cleanup
Jalopnik
ChemE’s Shelley Anna and Lynn Walker joined the Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative’s (GoMRI) effort to understand and limit the impact of the Deepwater Horizon spill, and their research from that effort was recently referenced in Jalopnik. In the article, their work is used to help describe how we might come up with a solution for cleaning up oil spills while protecting wildlife and ecosystems.
Whitefoot joins National Academies Committee
National Academies
EPP/MechE’s Kate Whitefoot is serving on the National Academies Committee to explore current and potential next-generation battery energy storage technologies for defense applications.
Zhang began term as the USACM President
USACM
MechE’s Jessica Zhang started her term as the president of US Association for Computational Mechanics (USACM) during an Executive Committee meeting in Munich on July 22. The mission of USACM is to promote, foster, organize and coordinate various activities concerning computational mechanics in the United States and to represent U.S. interests in computational mechanics as an affiliate of the International Association for Computational Mechanics (IACM). She will lead the organization and ensure that Executive Committee decisions are carried out.
Nock reveals truths about electricity use and affordability
Multiple sources
CEE/EPP’s Destenie Nock wrote an article that discusses the perspectives on affordability from energy companies and the importance of balancing reduced energy use to save funds while maintaining household safety and health. The article can be read in The Conversation, Chron, and Yahoo! News.
Laughlin receives 2025 J. Willard Gibbs Phase Equilibria Award
Springer
MSE’s David Laughlin was named the 2025 J. Willard Gibbs Phase Equilibria Award by ASM International. To honor him, guest editors from Springer curated a collection of articles from the Journal of Phase Equilibria and Diffusion. Guest editors include Dr. Michael C. Gao, Dr. Ursula R. Kattner, Prof. Wei Xiong, and Dr. Dongwon Shin.
Niepa hosts Bugs as Materials internship program
Chemical Engineering
ChemE’s Tagbo Niepa led the Bugs as Materials summer internship program, a hands-on experience for high school students to explore the role of microbes in creating sustainable materials.
30th anniversary of ChemE exchange program
The Department of Chemical Engineering celebrated 30 years of its undergraduate student exchange program with RWTH Aachen University in Germany. Dozens of students have participated in this international experience over the years. ChemE’s Ignacio Grossmann co-founded the program.
Engineering alumni inducted into Athletics Hall of Fame
CMU Athletics
Congratulations to the 2026 inductees of the Carnegie Mellon University Athletics Hall of Fame! This year’s HOF class includes nine College of Engineering alumni, six of whom were members of the history-making 2012 Women’s Soccer team. We are proud of our Tartan student-athletes.
Shout out to:
- Brian Carlock ChemE 1974
- Travis Sivek ECE 2008
- Stephanie Szobota MechE 2000
From the 2012 Women's Soccer Team:
- Brittany Couture BME/MSE 2014
- Mitra Ebrahimi BME/MechE 2013, ETIM 2014
- Hannah Lyness MechE 2016
- Emma Rose McCluskey Williams MechE 2015
- Julie Rekant BME/MechE 2014
- Cecelia Zischkau BME/ChemE 2014
Grossmann presents keynote at IEEE International Conference
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
ChemE’s Ignacio Grossmann presented a keynote address at the IEEE International Conference on Automation Science and Engineering in Shenyang, China. The address centered on applying mathematical programming to industrial enterprise-wide optimization.
Samaras applies expertise as judge for Innovators Under 35
MIT Technology Review
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras applied his expertise as a judge for MIT Technology Review’s Innovators Under 35 list. “These Innovators represent some of the best aspects of science and technology research—pushing forward bold ideas to improve the future for everyone,” said Samaras in an article previewing the September announcement. The list will recognize people from around the world who are doing groundbreaking scientific work and building clever technical fixes for sticky problems.
Rajkumar comments on in-car AI
Forbes
ECE’s Raj Rajkumar told Forbes that GM’s recent call to build its own in-car AI is a notable sign of which models will be put into vehicles. Rajkumar also said he sees potential for the original equipment manufacturers to optimize open-source and open-weight AI models for in-car AI.
Niepa announced as keynote speaker at ICIDSMAI’26
ICIDSMAI
ChemE’s Tagbo Niepa will give a keynote lecture for the 1st International Conference on Intelligent Digital Systems, Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence that will be held at the Higher School of Technology in November in Salé, Morocco. His lecture will explore cutting-edge research and its impact on the future of intelligent digital systems and artificial intelligence.
Bugs as Materials hosts 10 high school students
ChemE
This July, the Niepa μBiointerface Lab completed another successful year of the Bugs as Materials Program at Carnegie Mellon University. The summer research experience, led by ChemE’s Tagbo Niepa, is an immersive internship that brings high school students into university laboratories to explore chemical and biomedical engineering hands-on research and culminates in student research presentations.
Jen, Presto quoted on the “worst” kinds of wildfire smoke
Heatmap
ChemE’s Coty Jen and MechE’s Albert Presto were quoted in a Heatmap article discussing whether smoke from forest fires was less toxic than smoke from fires that burned houses and buildings. They shared what causes fire emissions to be toxic as well as how the elements within smoke particles change in the atmosphere.
Wolf receives America Makes’ Ambassador Award
The Business Journal
Sandra DeVincent Wolf, executive director of Manufacturing Futures Institute and Next Manufacturing Center was one of nine to be awarded the 2026 Ambassador Award by America Makes on Wednesday, August 5. The Ambassador Award program recognizes individuals who advance America Makes and its mission, and whose efforts have significantly shaped and advanced additive technology and the additive manufacturing community.
Data center research cited in Forbes
Forbes
A Forbes article analyzing data centers and electricity prices in the U.S. referenced a study authored by a cross-institutional team of researchers including EPP’s Joseph DeCarolis and Paulina Jaramillo. This collaborative network comprises the Open Energy Outlook, a key initiative of Carnegie Mellon’s Scott Institute for Energy Innovation.
Bill Gates visits the Upanzi Network
Gates Notes
Bill Gates recently visited CMU-Africa’s Upanzi Digital Experience Center during a trip to Rwanda. He spoke with young researchers and got to observe their DPI stack up close. Of the Upanzi Network, Gates said “this is exactly the kind of African-owned, African-built infrastructure that will improve lives across the continent.”
Engineering faculty awarded for academic and research achievements
The 2026 Engineering faculty award winners have been selected by the Engineering Faculty Awards and Recognition Committee for their exceptional achievements in academics and research. These include: Benjamin Richard Teare Teaching Award: Katherine Flanigan (CEE); David P. Casasent Outstanding Research Award: Tzahi Cohen-Karni (BME/MSE); Distinguished Professor of Engineering Award: Peter Adams (CEE/EPP); George Tallmann Ladd Research Award: Noelia Grande Gutiérrez (MechE), Philip and Marsha Dowd Fellowship: Patrick Tague (iii); Steven J. Fenves Award for Systems Research: Valerie Karplus (EPP) and Chris Pistorius (MSE); and Outstanding Mentoring Award: Kaushik Dayal (CEE), Kathryn Whitehead (ChemE), and Keith Cook (BME).
Kainerstorfer quoted on development of fetal health monitor
WESA
BME’s Jana Kainerstorfer was quoted in an WESA article on the development of a wearable monitor to better detect a fetus’ risk of hypoxia, or loss of oxygen, during birth. Carnegie Mellon University is leading a team of nine institutions on the project, with $39.3 million of funding from the federal Department of Health and Human Services.
Nock publishes piece on dangers of high indoor temperatures
The Conversation
CEE/EPP’s Destenie Nock published an article in The Conversation on why the recommended 78-degree air conditioner setting may not be right for every household. She recommends several ways households can lower indoor temperatures without relying heavily on an air conditioner.
July
Michalek quoted on consumer transition to electric vehicles
Los Angeles Times
EPP/MechE’s Jeremy Michalek was quoted in the Los Angeles Times on California’s efforts to encourage consumers to purchase electric vehicles.
Sekar quoted on need for federal AI guardrails
Channel News Asia
ECE’s Vyas Sekar spoke to Channel News Asia about the need for increased regulations around AI development in the U.S. This follows a petition calling for such guardrails signed by over 1,000 employees at leading AI companies.
Marom works on Genesis Mission project
Carnegie Mellon University
CMU researchers are working with the Department of Energy (DOE) and other universities on various projects through DOE’s Genesis Mission. MSE’s Noa Marom is participating in a project led by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory that will deliver AI-powered discovery of quantum and optoelectronic materials.
Peha quoted on internet space race
Straight Arrow News
EPP’s Jon Peha was quoted in Straight Arrow News on how people in remote areas will have access to high-speed internet via recently launched Amazon satellites.
Gordon explains how climate change is increasing rainfall
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
ChemE’s Hamish Gordon was quoted in a Pittsburgh Tribune-Review article on how climate change is increasing rainfall in the Pittsburgh region.
Jen quoted on air quality concerns from wildfire smoke
Chemical Engineering
ChemE′s Coty Jen was quoted in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on the causes and effects of the smoke and how it worsened air quality in the Pittsburgh region, as haze from North American wildfires spread east. Jen was also covered in CNN and MSN.
Improving predictions on smoke in the sky
Chemical Engineering
As wildfires and controlled land management fires release smoke into the air, researchers from the Center for Atmospheric Particle Studies are investigating how to improve models for more consistent predictions on the heating and cooling effects of smoke on the atmosphere. ChemE’s Hamish Gordon was on board some of the flights to help evaluate the real-time data.
Grossmann explains how math models impact power grids
Chemical Engineering
ChemE’s Ignacio Grossmann was the senior author of a recent study that revealed the effects of different mathematical models on the layout of power grids. While simplified models concentrate large power plants in one place, more rigorous models disperse these plants and dramatically reduce blackouts, but they also require higher upfront investment and operational costs. Ph.D. student Seolhee Cho was the first author on the study, which was published in IEEE Transactions on Power Systems.
Sevenler Q&A in Drug Delivery Leader
Drug Delivery Leader
ChemE’s Derin Sevenler was interviewed by Drug Delivery Leader in a Q&A titled “Red blood cell-based delivery: Promising steps forward.” Sevenler’s lab uses a microfluidic approach to perform efficient “surgery” on individual cells. This work has applications in treatments for cancer and autoimmune diseases, and aims to address the challenges of scalable manufacturing.
RETI Consortium named NSF Regional Innovation Engine awardee
Multiple sources
Carnegie Mellon is a core partner in the Resilient Energy Technology & Infrastructure (RETI) Consortium, which was announced on July 14, as one of just 12 new National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines award recipients. Scott Institute/EPP’s Valerie Karplus serves as the consortium’s director of policy. Outlets including Pittsburgh Business Times and TribLive reported on the consortium’s funding milestone, as well as its positioning to supercharge energy innovation, grid resilience, and entrepreneurship in the West Virginia-Western Pennsylvania region.
Kitchen, Laird discuss AI in education at FOPAM 2026
FOPAM 2026 Conference
ChemE’s John Kitchin and Carl Laird will present “Designing the Future Engineer: How AI Is Transforming Learning, Work, and Discovery” at the Foundations of Process/Product Analytics and Machine Learning (FOPAM) 2026 conference taking place July 26-30 in Decatur, GA. The session will include a discussion on responsible AI.
Savvides weighs in on improving drone technology
Reuters
ECE’s Marios Savvides is quoted on the technological advancement of drones in the United States. Various grocery store chains have trialed and shut down drone delivery initiatives, but recently proposed rules by the FAA would pave the way for drone use and testing to increase dramatically. Savvides emphasizes the importance of testing to improve functionality. This article also appears in Capital, AOL, and the U.S. News & World Report.
Fischhoff co-authors special feature on behavioral science
Medical Xpress
EPP’s Baruch Fischhoff co-authored a new special feature from Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences examining how behavioral science has helped American consumers and patients by influencing federal agencies like the FDA. This publication was highlighted in Medical Xpress.
Zhang delivers keynote at Tetrahedron Workshop VIII
Tetrahedron Workshop VIII
MechE’s Jessica Zhang was invited to deliver a keynote talk on her recent research at the Tetrahedron Workshop VIII, on July 13-15, 2026 in London, UK.
Nock quoted on air conditioning inequities during heat wave
USA Today
CEE/EPP’s Destenie Nock was quoted in USA Today on how low-income U.S. households tend to set their thermostats higher than other households in the summer, highlighting how dangerous this cost-saving measure can be during a heat wave. The article was also syndicated by Yahoo! and AOL.
Combemale quoted on AI’s impact on Pittsburgh jobs
Technical.ly
EPP’s Christophe Combemale was quoted by Technical.ly and Pittsburgh’s Public Source on how AI may create jobs in the Pittsburgh region in industries such as manufacturing.
Zapanta on Biomedical Engineering Society podcast
BMES Podcast
BME’s Conrad Zapanta recently explored the evolving role of higher education on the “Office Hours with Liz Wayne” podcast from the Biomedical Engineering Society. Wayne and Zapanta discussed what universities offer beyond the classroom, how engineering programs are adapting to AI and changing workforce needs, and why community, mentorship, and hands-on learning remain essential in biomedical engineering.
Samaras provides insight into Nashville Zoo’s conflict with a data center
CNN
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras sheds light on the conflict between the Nashville Zoo and DC BLOX’s proposed data center just outside the zoo’s limits. Though smaller than many large-scale data centers in the United States, it would still consume significant amounts of energy and potentially disrupt the wellbeing of the zoo’s sensitive and endangered animals. The article also appears in MSN.
Samaras quoted on current challenges of drone deliveries
Inside Climate News
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras was quoted in Inside Climate News about the environmental, cost, and quality-of-life trade-offs companies face when delivering packages by drone. The article also referenced his team’s research on using vehicles, such as buses, to improve the efficiency of drone travel.
June
CMU-Africa program participant named in Forbes Africa 30 Under 30
Forbes Africa
Forbes Africa selected Elly Savatia, a recent participant in Carnegie Mellon University Africa’s Business Incubation Program, as a member of their 30 Under 30 class of 2026. Savatia co-founded Signvrse, a startup creating 3D avatars that translate speech into sign language in real-time.
Ren discusses the future of bioengineered lungs
Popular Mechanics
BME’s Charlie Ren spoke with Popular Mechanics about how advances in bioengineered lungs could transform healthcare in the coming decades.
New MechE master’s course blends AI and manufacturing
Manufacturing Futures Institute
This spring, MechE’s Rahul Panat debuted the Application of AI and ML Methods for Modern Manufacturing course. This course has master’s students participate in projects that teach them how to employ artificial intelligence and machine learning models for speedier and less expensive manufacturing.
Moura received honorary Doctor of Laws
Lassonde School of Engineering
ECE’s José Moura received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Lassonde School of Engineering at York University and gave the convocation speech. Moura was honored for his achievements that include seminal contributions toward developing technology that has powered more than three billion disk drive chips.
Grossmann co-chairs conference on North American supply chain
U.S. National Academy of Engineering and the Tecnológico de Monterrey Education Group
ChemE’s Ignacio Grossmann is serving as co-chair of From Resilience to New Opportunities: Building the North American Supply Chain of the Future. The conference, co-organized by the U.S. National Academy of Engineering and the Tecnológico de Monterrey Education Group, takes place October 27-28 in Mexico. Grossmann will also be speaking at the international event.
Donahue serves on international organizing committee for Nobel Symposia
Nobel Symposia 206
ChemE’s Neil Donahue served on the international organizing committee for the Nobel Symposia 206 From Molecules to Climate: A Fundamental Understanding of Chemistry in Earth’s Atmosphere. During the conference, which took place June 29 - July 2, 2026 at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Donahue spoke about the chemistry and physics that couple organic oxidation to particle formation and growth.
Samaras talks adding data centers to the power grid
IEEE Spectrum
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras spoke with IEEE Spectrum about connecting data centers to the power grid in light of recent directives released by the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to help accelerate the process. Samaras noted that data centers aren’t the only large, concentrated loads that the grid will have to accommodate — future electrification of industry and transportation will also bring about new demands.
Samaras provides insight into designing cities for future weather
The Wall Street Journal
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras offers an architectural design solution to help cities adapt to climates that are increasingly warmer than those of the 1950s and 60s for which they were designed. He suggests using artificial intelligence to analyze and predict the power demands and reroute power as efficiently as possible.
Eni Halilaj talked with TribLIVE about the biomechanics behind the FIFA World Cup
TribLIVE
MechE’s Eni Halilaj spoke with the TribLIVE about the biomechanics behind the FIFA World Cup. Halilaj explained that elite athletes push their bodies to the limits, making injuries an inherent part of the sport. She highlighted how wearable sensors could improve recovery and help athletes return to play more safely.
Whitehead receives Women in Science Award
Controlled Release Society Women in Science
ChemE’s Kathryn Whitehead has received the Controlled Release Society’s 2026 Women in Science Award, which recognizes an internationally renowned woman scientist for outstanding contributions to delivery science and technology.
Ramnath provides industry insights into low-outgassing adhesives
AZoM
Rohit Ramnath, who received his master’s in ChemE from the College of Engineering in 2011, was recently interviewed on outgassing and why its minimization is essential for adhesives used in space. Outgassing is the gradual release of chemical compounds and can interfere with sensitive instrumentation such as cameras and telescopes.
Peha publishes memo on AI and policing
Federation of American Scientists
EPP’s Jon Peha authored a memo published by the Federation of American Scientists examining the potential benefits and challenges of using generative AI to help police officers write reports. In the memo, Peha recommends that federal agencies develop frameworks to guide police departments in considering the use of AI for report writing.
Chan discusses protein nanofibrils at MTSM Conference
Midwest thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics 2026
ChemE’s Daphne Wui Yarn Chan is giving an invited talk at the 35th Midwest Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics (MTSM) Conference at the University Minnesota on June 16. Her presentation topic is self-assembled protein nanofibrils for renewable materials.
Samaras, Jayan on hand as Allegheny County launches clean tech initiative
Axios
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras and MechE’s Reeja Jayan were on hand when County Executive Sara Innamorato signed the ACT NOW Executive Order establishing a series of initiatives designed to position Allegheny County as a national leader in clean technology and advanced manufacturing. Samaras and Jayan each spoke to Axios about research and startup prospects in the region.
Samaras discusses impact of proposed federal science funding changes
Bloomberg
CEE’s Costa Samaras was featured in a Bloomberg article examining the Trump administration’s proposed changes to federal science funding. Samaras noted that research on the unequal impacts of air pollution across communities is foundational to understanding and addressing environmental challenges, and warned that restrictions on this type of work could limit critical climate and environmental research.
Aitbekova awarded for innovative research
C&EN
ChemE’s Aisulu Aitbekova was recently honored as one of Chemical and Engineering News’ Talented Twelve. The award recognizes scientists tackling major challenges through chemistry, with Aitbekova selected from more than 500 nominations. She was chosen in part for her research into the catalytic potential of light.
Pistorius talks sustainable production on podcast
The Business of Materials
MSE’s Chris Pistorius appeared on the twelfth episode of The Business of Materials podcast hosted by Isha Ghiya alongside guest co-host Anish Ghiya. In the episode, Pistorius revealed how sustainable iron and steel production is evolving and the practical change driven by research breakthroughs.
Two engineering alumni receive Fulbright Awards
CMU News
ChemE alum Keenan Norton and MechE alum Jeanie Xu were recipients of the 2026-27 Fulbright Award. Norton will continue his research in improving the Americas’ water quality and access in Ecuador. Xu will be an English teaching assistant in Taiwan, broadening both her own knowledge and that of her students.
Jen investigates Pittsburgh’s pungent nocturnal pollution
Chemical Engineering
ChemE’s Coty Jen worked alongside other researchers at CMU’s Center for Atmospheric Particle Studies to identify the source of nighttime stenches in Southwestern PA. Findings from field campaigns in 2023 and 2024 revealed sulfuric acid concentrations that are much too high given the conditions. More research will reveal why this is happening and how it can be mitigated.
Grossmann and Torres contribute to book on optimization
ChemE faculty Ignacio Grossmann and Ana Torres and alumna Seolhee Cho are among the contributors to a new book, Optimization of Sustainable Process Systems: Multiscale Models and Uncertainties. Grossmann and Cho wrote the chapter titled “Optimization Models and Algorithms for Design and Planning of Sustainable Processes and Energy Systems.” Torres and her international collaborators authored the chapter titled “Repurposing a Conventional Oil Refinery for Biomass Processing to Aviation Fuel: Process Design and Techno-Environmental Evaluation for a Real Operating Plant.”
Two ChemE scholars earn NSF Graduate Research Fellowships
NSF
ChemE student Rebecca So and graduate Bilal Chaudhry received the National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowships for the 2026–2027 academic year. So is studying the mixing dynamics of biomolecular condensates as a Ph.D. student in ChemE’s James Schneider’s research group. She is co-advised by Huaiying Zhang from CMU’s Department of Biological Sciences. Chaudhry completed his senior honors research project in Schneider’s group last year, focusing on surfactant solubilization methods to assess the stability of lipid nanoparticles. Today, he is a Ph.D. student in Martin Wuhr’s research group at Princeton University.
Zhang to deliver a plenary lecture at WCCM-ECCOMAS 2026
IACM
MechE’s Jessica Zhang was invited to deliver a plenary lecture at the the 17th World Congress on Computational Mechanics & 10th European Congress on Computational Methods in Applied Sciences and Engineering (WCCM-ECCOMAS 2026), which will be held in Munich, Germany on July 19-24, 2026. WCCM-ECCOMAS 2026 is expected to be one of the largest congresses in the field of computational mechanics and computational methods in applied sciences and engineering. It is anticipated to attract a diverse and global audience from academia, government, and industry, encompassing all areas of engineering and science.
Sekar quoted on social media fingerprint hacking worries
CBS News
ECE’s Vyas Sekar was quoted in a CBS News article responding to viral concerns that a hacker could lift a person’s fingerprints from a photo posted on social media. He said that the risk was possible in theory, but that it would be difficult for hackers to actually target someone this way.
Michalek quoted on electric vehicle costs and climate impact
NPR
EPP/MechE’s Jeremy Michalek was quoted in an NPR article assessing the costs and environmental friendliness of a gasoline versus an electric vehicle. Michalek concluded the electric vehicle was more cost-effective and would generate fewer emissions long term.
May
Samaras moderates National Academies webinar
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras moderated a May 26 webinar hosted by The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The event featured an interview-style discussion with Carbon Mapper's Riley Duren and set out to examine the current state of greenhouse gas data and where critical gaps persist, with particular attention to how advances in AI, data infrastructure, and remote sensing are reshaping emissions monitoring and transparency.
Taheri-Mousvai research featured at DOE summit
Association of American Universities
At the Department of Energy sponsored Genesis summit, CMU President Farnam Jahanian highlighted research from the Taheri-Mousvai research group that used computational simulations and machine learning techniques to identify a new aluminum alloy that is capable of withstanding extremely high temperatures and that could have applications in the automotive and aviation industries while delivering significant cost savings.
Farag named as a Google Higher Ed Faculty AI Fellow
CyLab
INI’s Mohamed Farag has been selected as a Google Higher Ed Faculty AI Fellow. The fellowship recognizes university faculty members who are integrating AI into teaching, research, and institutional innovation. Farag’s fellowship project will focus on identifying processes, guidelines, and potential tools that can help students use AI to support their intellectual growth and learning development.
Fischhoff explains miscommunication of experts and the public
Nautilus
EPP’s Baruch Fischhoff was quoted in Nautilus on the disconnect between public perception of natural phenomena and the actual science behind them, in this case specifically, the frequency and magnitude of earthquakes. Fischhoff explains that “people have plausible mental models of how things work,” but due to discrepancies in what each group values, experts might’ve just “done a terrible job of communicating” in a way that aligns with what the public can understand.
Zhao featured for robotics research
TechXplore
MechE’s Ding Zhao and Ph.D. student Yaru Niu have been highlighted for their work developing humanoid robots that can become more aware of their environments. These robots employ a model that is better at predicting touch and force, a process the research team calls “touch dreaming.” Their work was also featured in an article from Interesting Engineering.
Bergbreiter comments on drones trained by honeybees
Scientific American
MechE’s Sarah Bergbreiter was quoted in Scientific American, speaking on the effectiveness of the honeybee’s natural navigation system when utilized in miniature drones. “What I find especially exciting is how little computation is needed,” Bergbreiter said. “For the small-scale robots that my group and others work on, this is the kind of approach that makes serious outdoor deployments plausible.”
Majidi receives 2026 American Innovator Award
Mechanical Engineering
MechE’s Carmel Majidi was recognized in the Bayh-Dole Coalition’s 2026 Faces of American Innovation report for his development of flexible materials that are thermally and electrically conductive, with applications from cooling data centers to improving precision in robotics. The coalition preserves the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980, which empowers innovators to develop their inventions for broader public use. Majidi and the seven other awardees will receive this year’s American Innovator Award in Washington, D.C. on June 3, 2026.
ChemE graduate quoted in PR Newswire
PR Newswire
Recent ChemE alum and Fulbright scholar Keenan Norton was quoted in PR Newswire, describing how CMU has prepared him to be an “engineer of the future” in response to the inspiring commencement speeches by Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA, and Simi Olusola-Ajayi, a graduating master’s student. Alongside his ChemE degree, Norton also graduated with degrees in environmental and sustainability studies and Hispanic studies.
Fischhoff wins research book award
EPP’s Baruch Fischhoff has won a 2026 Responsible Research in Management Award for his book Bounded Disciplines & Unbounded Problems. Among 121 nominations, Fischhoff’s book was selected for both its scientific rigor as well as its benefit to society.
Pistorius comments on international steel decarbonization efforts
Canary Media
MSE’s Chris Pistorius suggested in Canary Media that the energy-intensive iron-production phase of steelmaking could reasonably shift overseas to regions with cheaper renewables, noting that shipping iron is a more efficient way to transport embodied energy.
Cook praised for pulmonary assist system
Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs
The Congressionally Directed Medical Resource Program recently highlighted work from BME Head Keith Cook on a lightweight pulmonary assist system that could provide life support for soldiers and civilians. The CDMRP held up Cook’s ongoing work to bridge the gap from prototype development to clinical application as a success story of its Peer Review Medical Research Program.
Samaras delivers Stanford Energy Seminar
Stanford University
On April 27, Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras delivered a Stanford Energy Seminar at the university’s Precourt Institute for Energy. The talk centered on how the US can expand its energy capacity to meet the increasing demand of data centers and how these policies can be broadened to benefit the entire electric grid.
Muller highlighted for economic data center analysis
Fortune
Fortune referenced EPP’s Nick Muller in his recent working paper for the National Bureau of Economic Research, where he reveals the indirect economic effects of data centers on the health and increased mortality of residents near these sites. By converting premature mortality rates and severe adverse health effects caused by the data centers into monetary values, Muller estimates $25 billion in economic damages from environmental pollutants and energy consumption.
Tsamitis presents keynote at CAE Community Symposium
Information Networking Institute
INI Director Dena Haritos Tsamitis gave a keynote presentation at the 2026 National Centers for Academic Excellence (CAE) Community Symposum. The INI partnered with the National Cryptologic University National Centers for Academic Excellence Program Managment Office on the event, which brought together more than 700 cybersecurity experts from across CAE partner schools to share insights through presentations, workshops, and discussions.
April
Sriraman receives Anita Borg Award
Electrical and Computer Engineering
ECE’s Akshitha Sriraman is the 2026 recipient of the Computing Research Association (CRA) Anita Borg Early Career Award for her work advancing efficient, sustainable and fair hyperscale data center systems.
CMU-Africa and exchange program featured in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
CMU-Africa and its exchange program between the Kigali, Rwanda and Pittsburgh locations was featured by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. CMU-Africa student Sheila Wafalu discusses her experience in Pittsburgh. CMU-Africa faculty members Keith Straughan and Jesse Thornburg talk about CMU-Africa and Kigali.
Bockstaller quoted on Reju textile recycling
Retail Brew
MSE’s Michael Bockstaller comments on Reju, a polyester recycling company, in Retail Brew, noting that the company’s work is very promising. “De-polymerization [is] the holy grail in polymer recycling,” Bockstaller said. “This is going to be the critical step in the circular economy if we want to make this a reality as far as polymers are concerned. I’m happy to see this progress.”
Qian featured on NFL Draft traffic
CMU News
CEE’s Sean Qian comments on the issues Pittsburgh’s infrastructure, especially bridges and tunnels, could face due to the massive influx of people coming for the NFL draft. He also proposes possible solutions, which include recommending that travelers shift their peak travel times and prioritize public transit, biking, or walking over private vehicles and ridesharing apps.
Nature Africa features work on culturally-sensitive robots
Nature Africa
Nature Africa recently highlighted CMU-Africa research associate and alumnus Birhanu Shimelis Girma for his work in culturally-sensitive social robotics.
Samaras weighs in on Maine’s proposed data center ban
Maine Morning Start
Costa Samaras, Director of the CMU Scott Institute for Energy Innovation and Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, spoke with the Maine Morning Star about the potential impact of Maine’s proposed bill to ban data centers larger than 20 megawatts through November 2027. The legislation has passed both the state's Senate and House of Representatives and now awaits the governor’s decision, potentially making it the first statewide data center moratorium in the U.S.
O’Connor facilitates “Squishy Science Sunday”
APS News
MSE’s Thomas O’Connor recently helped to facilitate “Squishy Science Sunday,” an outreach event inviting kids to better understand research through hands-on activities, in conjunction with the American Physical Society Global Physics Summit.
McComb collaborates with Pittsburgh schools
TribLive
MechE’s Chris McComb collaborated with Pittsburgh-area high schools on a human-centered AI initiative, guiding the development of student-designed tools aimed at improving K–12 education outcomes.
He awarded AIMBE Professional Impact Award for Leadership
AIMBE
BME’s Bin He is among the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering’s (AIMBE) 2026 award winners, honoring individuals whose groundbreaking contributions have advanced the fields of medical and biological engineering. He was awarded the Professional Impact Award - Leadership for outstanding leadership in establishing and advancing the field of neural engineering. These prestigious awards will be presented during the AIMBE Awards Banquet on April 12, 2026, at the AIMBE Annual Event in Washington, D.C.
Samaras on climate-resilient water systems
Politico
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras spoke with Politico on the importance of publicly available climate data to make our drinking water infrastructure more resilient.
Nock on Resources Radio podcast
Resources Radio podcast
CEE and EPP’s Destenie Nock discusses measures utilities and policymakers can take to better capture energy-accessibility and affordability metrics.
CMU ranked in Forbes New Ivies
Forbes
Carnegie Mellon University took a spot in Forbes’ third annual list of the New Ivies: 20 top schools whose alums rate highly with employers. CMU, which is a known leader in AI, was ranked among the top 10 private institutions by the more than 100 C-Suite and hiring executives who were asked not only to rate schools, but also how AI was changing their hiring of new grads.
He quoted on brain-computer interfaces
The Wall Street Journal
BME’s Bin He spoke with The Wall Street Journal about brain-computer interfaces to control devices with thoughts. He predicts that researchers will overcome both the hardware and software challenges that will eventually enable billions of people to use brain-computer interfaces to do everything from messaging friends to switching on the lights and making coffee.
March
Data Analytics Center supports traffic incident management modernization project
The Daily Courier
CEE’s Sean Qian and CMU researchers partner with Westmoreland County to develop an AI-enabled system to protect first responders and reduce fatalities on PA roads.
Westinghouse CTO speaks at Energy Week
Pittsburgh Business Times
Westinghouse Electric Company’s Lou Martinez Sancho, chief technology officer, delivered a keynote at CMU Energy Week, hosted by the Scott Institute for Energy Innovation. The Pittsburgh Business Times covered Martinez Sancho’s session, which touched on nuclear energy prospects.
Samaras comments on new AI data centers in Alabama
WBRC News
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras offers his input on Alabama building new data centers to fuel the rise in AI. He notes that with the appropriate protective measures, these data centers can offer multiple opportunities and benefits for the community.
Fischoff comments on self-vaccination
Baltimore Sun
EPP’s Baruch Fischhoff collaborated on an article highlighting painless yet effective methods for self-vaccination. He recommends investing in oral, nasal, and skin patch versions of the injected vaccines.
Canton named among Women of Influence 2026
Pittsburgh Business Times
Rita Canton, director of engineering outreach for the College of Engineering, was selected as a 2026 Women of Influence award winner by the Pittsburgh Business Times. This program honors businesswomen who are helping to lead their organizations into the future, making significant, impactful change in the region and getting deeply involved in their communities. An awards celebration is planned for May 14 at Acrisure Stadium.
February
Karplus speaks at National Academies webinar
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
EPP’s Valerie Karplus was a panelist during a webinar hosted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine that explored the promise and potential of energy parks. The National Academies posted a related story on their website.
Torres highlighted for research on optimal recycling plants
Rare Earth Exchanges
ChemE’s Ana Torres and her Ph.D. student Chris Laliwala were highlighted for their research on designing optimal recycling plants for various materials. They and their colleagues developed a superstructure optimization model to compare end-of-life magnet-recycling routes and determine the most economical pathway before building billion-dollar facilities, testing it on hard disk drives versus EV/HEV motors.
Feinberg featured for ARPA-H research
3D Printing Industry
BME/MSE’s Adam Feinberg’s work was described by 3D Printing Industry in their coverage of ARPA-H teams. Feinberg aims to FRESH 3D bioprint immune-compatible livers for acute liver failure, aiming for first-in-human trials within five years and eventually addressing all forms of liver failure.
Chase quoted on pressure and athletic performance
The New York Post
BME’s Steve Chase had research referenced in The New York Post about the pressures that affect athletes’ performance, in response to the surprising falls from Ilia Malinin, an Olympic U.S. figure skater. Chase’s neuroscience study with University of Pittsburgh partners found that the brain can become overly cautious in high-pressure scenarios.
January
Samaras and Rounce give insight on managing Pittsburgh's extreme weather
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras and CEE’s David Rounce discuss how severe weather patterns in Pittsburgh require immediate action to protect local communities. Rounce warns that the city’s century-old pipe system is unequipped for the modern “extreme precipitation” events. As new plans are being developed, Samaras emphasizes that “people are looking to Pittsburgh for leadership.”
Fischhoff featured on overconfidence and cognitive bias
Open Culture
EPP’s Baruch Fischhoff was featured by Open Culture for an interview about the dangers of overconfidence and cognitive bias. His study from the 1970s, which revealed the vast disparity between accuracy and perceived certainty, continues to be highly relevant today.
Gueye and Fanti featured in Security Boulevard
Security Boulevard
CMU-Africa’s Assane Gueye and Giulia Fanti served as advisors for a joint research initiative between the CyLab-Africa team and Upanzi Network to assess the security of common financial applications in Africa. This project, featured in Security Boulevard, highlights the security issues in Android packages, as well as provides strategic guidance for improvement.
Feinberg addresses breakthroughs in regenerative medicine
Tomorrow's Cure
BME/MSE’s Adam Feinberg, in conversation with Saranya Wyles, of Mayo Clinic, kicked off the season four premiere of Tomorrow’s Cure. The podcast episode explores advances in 3D bioprinting living, humanized skin models built from real human cells, and what it will take to translate this technology into clinical use. Together, they discuss applications ranging from improved wound healing to better ways to test therapies before they reach patients.
Bauer named 2025 ACM Fellow
Association for Computer Machinery
ECE’s Lujo Bauer has been named a 2025 Association for Computer Machinery Fellow for contributions to access control, usable security and privacy, and the security of machine learning.
Samaras talks data centers and energy use
WUWM 89.7
Scott Institute Director Costa Samaras spoke with WUWM 89.7—Milwaukee’s NPR—to unpack all things data centers, including what they do, how they consume energy, where the hubs are, and how they might evolve. “As the dramatic increase of computing has grown, it has required the construction of new data centers. Data centers are the main energy story that's happening right now. That's because computers use electricity and data centers are full of computers,” Samaras told the outlet.