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New research on hydrophobic insects could improve future of robotics

The natural adaptations that enable tiny, water-walking insects to withstand the assault of torrential rainstorms could one day make the leap to advances in biomimetic robots thanks to research by a Florida Polytechnic University professor. Dr. Daren Watson, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, is studying the ways water striders can withstand raindrops. Water striders are […]

Renowned engineering academic joins Florida Poly as department chair

When introducing students to electrical and computer engineering, Dr. Bruce Jacob has an eye-catching visual aid that grabs their attention. “I walk out with an electric guitar, point to the front, and say, ‘This is electrical engineering.’ There’s a powerful inductor, which is a type of antenna that’s good at picking up disturbances in magnetic […]

New applied mathematics chair brings wealth of research, curriculum experience

As the new chair of Florida Polytechnic University’s Department of Applied Mathematics, Dr. Michael Brilleslyper is working on a formula to elevate the department to the next level. “The idea is that applied mathematicians are versatile,” said Brilleslyper, who joined the University this summer after a 21-year career at the Air Force Academy. “Students with […]

Florida Poly wins NSF grant to research durability of 3D-printed jet engine materials

With the advanced technology of today’s rockets and jet engines, these powerful devices require metal parts that are stronger than ever. An engineering professor at Florida Polytechnic University has received a National Science Foundation grant to research the durability and longevity of the critical metals now used in these ever-changing machines.

Florida Poly professor shaping the future of rhinoplasty

LAKELAND, Fla. – Dr. Oguzhan Topsakal, assistant professor of computer science at Florida Polytechnic University, is employing leading-edge digital technology to help plastic surgeons achieve better outcomes when performing rhinoplasty. The research has been published in several leading journals. So far this year, he and his team have published three papers in top journals such […]

2021 Ablaze awards honor outstanding employee contributions at Florida Poly

LAKELAND, Fla. – Florida Polytechnic University celebrated its fourth annual Ablaze awards ceremony to honor the hard work, determination, and perseverance of its employees in helping the University achieve its academic goals. The event was held on Friday, April 16, and recognized employees who have demonstrated excellence in areas such as teaching, service to others, […]

Ready to grow: Florida Poly recruiting dozens of faculty

LAKELAND, Fla. – Florida Polytechnic University, the only state university dedicated entirely to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), is poised for unprecedented growth as it seeks to add 25 new faculty members for the fall 2021 semester. The recruitment effort comes as many universities across the country are shedding faculty positions in the wake […]

Professor’s research featured in WHO COVID-19 database

Dr. Ajeet Kaushik, assistant professor of chemistry at Florida Polytechnic University, joined scientists around the world in shifting his attention in 2020 toward addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. Kaushik published several scientific papers in 2020 and 2021 that explore the use of nanomedicine, biosensors, and artificial intelligence to diagnose and combat COVID-19. The World Health Organization […]

Rashid listed among top 2% of world’s leading scientists

LAKELAND, Fla. – Florida Polytechnic University professor Dr. Muhammad Rashid has been listed among the top 2% of scientists in a global list compiled by Stanford University. At number 617, Rashid was ranked in the top 1% of the 87,611 scientists in his field of electronics and electrical engineering in the study. “Sometimes, the freshman […]

Florida Poly professor tapped for national public policy program

An assistant professor of electrical engineering at Florida Polytechnic University has been selected for the highly competitive Optical Society of America (OSA) Foundation public policy program. Dr. Md Selim Habib will work to help advance knowledge of the significance of the optics and photonics field by working with other leading academics and members of Congress. […]

Dr. Lily Li is a Professor of Physics at Florida Polytechnic University, where she specializes in materials science, analytical imaging, advanced manufacturing, and biomedical devices. Prior to joining Florida Poly in 2025, she spent 11 years at SUNY Potsdam, where she advanced to Full Professor and developed a 3-2 Engineering dual-degree program with Clarkson University. Her work emphasizes experiential learning and research-driven education to prepare students for careers in STEM fields.