Utah State University College of Engineering

Doctoral student Dillon Weatherston, Associate Professor Elizabeth Vargis, and Associate Professor Justin Jones have lead a breakthrough discovery in developing a technology that mimics aging cells of the human eye.

The team’s research will help advance treatment and a possible cure for age-related macular degeneration.

Read the full article here: https://engineering.usu.edu/news/main-feed/2026/a-new-vision-how-utah-state-bioengineering-researchers-are-changing-the-outlook-for-aging-eyes

Biological Engineering Professor Anhong Zhou has been awarded a $780,000 USDA grant to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders through hands-on, instrument-driven learning experiences.

The project will provide Utah youth with opportunities to explore food production, animal care, plant science, and agricultural technology through interactive programs, specialized training, and real-world experiences. By bringing together USU faculty, USU Extension 4-H, and community partners, the initiative aims to strengthen agricultural education and career awareness across Utah.

Read more here: https://engineering.usu.edu/news/main-feed/2026/the-future-of-agriculture-education-usu-engineering-professor-receives

USU Engineering Students Continue to Outperform National Pass Rates for Fundamentals of Engineering Exam

Learn more here: https://engineering.usu.edu/news/main-feed/2026/usu-engineering-students-continue-to-outperform-national-pass-rates-for-fundamentals-of-engineering-exam

As disruptive technology, seismic concerns, and aging infrastructure continue to challenge society, Dr. Mohsen Zaker Esteghamati is integrating artificial intelligence to help prepare the next generation of engineers. An effort that hasn't gone unnoticed.

This year alone, the Utah State structural engineering professor earned three major awards recognizing his impact in research, teaching, and mentorship:

• 2026 Engineering Educator of the Year, Structural Engineers Association of Utah
• 2026 Terry Peshia Early Career Faculty Award, American Institute of Steel Construction
• 2026 Engineering Educator of the Year, Utah Engineers Council

His work at the Utah Transportation Center is helping develop AI models that prioritize maintenance and repairs to keep bridges and other critical infrastructure safe and reliable.

Read more about Dr. Esteghamati here: https://engineering.usu.edu/news/main-feed/2026/seismic-activity-from-firstgen-student-to-awardwinning-educator

Congratulations to Soukaina Filali Boubrahimi, Associate Professor in the School of Computing, on receiving the SHINE award from the National Science Foundation!

This three-year, $580,185 award will support research using artificial intelligence and advanced data science to improve predictions of Solar Energetic Particle events and enhance our ability to forecast dangerous solar radiation storms.

Read more here: https://engineering.usu.edu/news/main-feed/2026/nsf-shine-award-supports-aipowered-research-to-better-predict-extreme-solar-activity

Future engineers, technicians, and innovators — this one’s for you. 🔧⚡

At the ASPIRE Summer EV Academy, students will:
• Work on a real electric vehicle
• Learn EV wiring and integration
• Explore battery systems and diagnostics
• Gain hands-on engineering experience

📅 July 27–31
📍 ASPIRE EVR Facility | North Logan, UT
🎓 Grades 9–12
⏳ Apply by June 1

Learn more & register here: https://aspire.usu.edu/summer-academy/

Aspire Research Center Switch Vehicles

Competing against 17 other teams, Utah State University students took top placements in their first-ever showing at the 2026 Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering Conference and Exhibition in Seattle, April 27-30.

Explore the awards they have received here: https://engineering.usu.edu/news/main-feed/2026/nailed-it-usu-students-take-podiumpositions-at-their-first-society-for-the-advancement-of-material-and-process-engineering

Senior Design Night 2026 is one week away and you're invited!

🗓️ Tuesday, April 28 | 5 to 8 PM
📍 Taggart Student Center
🎟️ FREE Admission

Bring your friends, family, and curiosity as we celebrate the incredible work of this year’s graduating class. From innovative solutions to real world engineering challenges, you’ll get a firsthand look at what our students have been engineering 🔧✨

More information: https://lnkd.in/eSbsaCD2