Purdue Faculty Members Receive NSF Awards

Six faculty members at Purdue University’s College of Engineering have won the National Science Foundation’s 2015 Faculty Early Career Development award. The award is given to those who most effectively integrate research and education "within the context of the mission of their organization."
The winners from Purdue include Peter Bermel, Jennifer DeBoer, Kendra Erk, Morgan Hynes, Rebecca Kramer and Alejandra Magana. The NSF issues about 400 Early Career awards each year.
Peter Bermel is an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering. His work will lead combined theoretical and experimental efforts to recover waste heat as electricity. The description for his award can be found here.
Jennifer DeBoer is an assistant professor of engineering education. She is working to evaluate and improve online courses for engineering undergraduates from diverse backgrounds. The description for her award can be found here.
Kendra Erk is an assistant professor of materials engineering. She will be working to develop new internal curing agents that will be used for the creation of high-performance concrete with increased strength and durability. The description for her award can be found here.
Morgan Hynes is also an assistant professor of engineering education. He will investigate how the engagement in and perceptions of engineering among students in grades five through eight are influenced by participating in engineering challenges that intentionally integrate their personal interests. Details on Hynes’ award can be found here.
Rebecca Kramer is an assistant professor of mechanical engineering. She will investigate an additive manufacturing process using liquid metal. The description for her award can be found here.
Alejandra Magana is an associate professor of computer and information technology. Her work will seek to understand and enhance modeling and simulation practices in undergraduate engineering education. Details on her award can be found here.