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Dr. Ajeet Kaushik, assistant professor of chemistry at Florida Polytechnic University, has been selected as a Fulbright Specialist. He will travel to Spain this summer to work on a project focused on electrochemical sensors for microplastic detection at the Technical University of Catalonia-Barcelona Tech.

Florida Poly global top scientist joins prestigious Fulbright Specialist Roster

February 17, 2025

Dr. Ajeet Kaushik, a leading researcher in nanotechnology and biosensors and recognized among the top 2% of scientists worldwide, has earned a highly prestigious academic opportunity.

Kaushik, assistant professor of chemistry at Florida Polytechnic University, has been named to the Fulbright Specialist Roster by the U.S. State Department. This distinction positions him to collaborate on specialized projects at institutions across more than 150 countries through December of 2027.

“Being part of the Fulbright program gives me the opportunity to strengthen Florida Poly’s external collaboration efforts by attracting international experts to support our academic expansion and research culture,” Kaushik said.

The recognition solidifies the University’s commitment to transatlantic research collaborations, driving innovation and economic growth both locally and abroad.

“As Florida Poly gains prominence as a leader in STEM education in Florida and beyond, the global scientific community is taking notice, and appointments like Dr. Kaushik’s only amplify that awareness,” said Dr. Devin Stephenson, Florida Poly president. “As one of the top scientists in the world, Dr. Kaushik’s dedication to research and education is a source of immense pride for our University.”

This summer, Kaushik will travel to Spain to work with Dr. Jasmina Casals-Terré, director of the Center for Advanced Technologies in Mechanics research group at the Technical University of Catalonia-Barcelona Tech, and principal investigator of the institution’s Microfluidics Division Lab.

“Fulbright’s very specific projects are always intended to help mankind and make a better society,” Kaushik said. “My first project concerns making electrochemical sensors for microplastic detection.”

These global ties set the stage for a strong and dynamic academic relationship between Florida and Spain.

“Dr. Kaushik’s Fulbright appointment is a testament to the caliber of faculty we have at Florida Poly, as well as our commitment to academic excellence and global engagement,” said Dr. Brad Thiessen, Florida Poly’s interim provost and vice president for academic affairs.

The University launched its program in 2018 and quickly gained international attention by facilitating the work of students and faculty who continue making an impact across the globe.

“We are committed to the continued development of academic excellence and distinction to better serve our community and our world,” said Mustapha Achoubane, the University’s senior advisor for international relations. “This commitment strives to see Florida Poly as an intellectual capital powerhouse of advanced scientists, technologists and innovators.”

 

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Michelle Powell serves as the pioneering Risk Manager at Florida Polytechnic University, the state’s sole 100% STEM-dedicated institution. Having been with the university for nearly 11 years, Michelle transitioned from a leadership role in Admissions in October 2023 to establish and evolve the risk management function from the ground up. In this solo capacity, Michelle builds robust frameworks for our dynamic, young university, overseeing our insurance portfolio, consulting on third-party and event risks, and developing critical campus-wide training programs. Michelle has obtained the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) Enterprise Risk Management certificate and the Associate in Risk Management (ARM) and Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist (CRIS) designations. Her distinct background in mathematics and engineering, combined with extensive higher education leadership, brings an analytical and strategic approach enhancing the institution’s resilience.