June 27, 2025

Society’s growing digital infrastructure and the power-hungry data centers required to support it all have dramatically increased global electricity demand, making efficient renewable energy production more critical than ever. At a time when tech companies and governments are seeking sustainable energy solutions, researchers at Michigan Technological University have paved a new path toward efficient, scalable solar energy.

The research, published recently in ACS Applied Energy Materials, represents a return to fundamentals in solar cell design — focusing on material quality rather than structural complexity. Michigan Tech experts in physics and materials science and engineering conducted the study, which was led by Yoke Khin Yap, professor of physics.

Read more about this innovative research at the Unscripted Research Blog. 

Site Selection mentioned Michigan Tech in two stories about Michigan’s leadership in advanced manufacturing and mobility. One story highlighted the state’s growing semiconductor industry and its investments in companies like Calumet Electronics, while the other focused on Michigan’s innovation and strategic role in mobility and electrification.

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The Autopian mentioned Michigan Tech’s Keweenaw Research Center in a story about Mitsubishi’s long history of producing diesel-powered off-roading vehicles based on the Willys Jeep CJ-3B. 

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The Keweenaw Report mentioned Kelly Steelman (PsyHF) in a story about Michigan Tech’s Psychology and Human Factors department celebrating a record year in research funding and its 20th anniversary on campus. The story was picked up from a College of Sciences and Arts News Blog post. 

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Michigan Tech alum Priya Ranjan ‘06 (Ph.D. Biotechnology and Genetics) was featured by Oak Ridge National Laboratory in a story about his work transforming large biological datasets into actionable insights. Ranjan’s research focuses on building computational tools for biotechnology, plant genomics, and microbial behavior, supporting innovations in biofuels and food security.

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Michigan Tech alum and College of Engineering Advisory Board member Terry Woychowski '78 (B.S. Mechanical Engineering) was featured in MotorTrend in a story about China’s rapid advancements in the automotive industry. Woychowski discussed the technological and structural advantages that Chinese automakers have gained, particularly in electric vehicles, and how Western companies must innovate and adapt to remain competitive.

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Girls' Basketball : Summer High School Team Shootout

Friday, June 27, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. | Student Development Complex (SDC), Multi-Purpose

You know that when it comes to success, it’s all about teamwork. So what are you waiting for? Grab your mates and coach and head to Michigan Tech this summer for an intensive one-day shootout designed especially for teams.

Part 1 - Summer Orientation - Session 2

Friday, June 27, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. | Michigan Tech Campus

This year orientation programs will look a little different from years past. Incoming students will be required to attend one of four, 2-day summer orientation sessions and the fall orientation session. The summer sessions are designed to have students meet with an academic advisor, get important information regarding registration and placement tests, as well as the opportunity to engage with campus resources. Registration for one of our summer sessions will be available sometime in February, 2025.

KISMA Volunteer Buckthorn Removal Event

Friday, June 27, 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m. | Swedetown Trails trailhead and Chalet

Healthy Forests, Healthy Communities A new community-based approach to invasive species management Looking for a way to give back to your community, the environment, and protect a local recreation area? Invasive buckthorn is an environmental threat and recreational nuisance at The Swedetown Recreation Area in Calumet, and we’re looking for your help to remove it this summer! “Healthy Forests Healthy Communities” events: Every Friday1-3:30 pmJune 6 - August 15 Meet at the Swedetown Trails chaletFamily friendly and educationalTools and equipment provided

Alumni Night at Jimmy John's Field BBQ + Baseball Game 2025

Friday, June 27, 6:05 p.m. | Jimmy Johns Field

Alumni, friends, and families are invited to join volunteer hosts and current members of the Alumni Board of Directors Diane Cesarz '94 and Heather Storey '92 for an evening of fun and entertainment on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Jimmy John's Field. Michigan Tech Alumni Night will kick off with an all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet at 6:05 p.m. followed by the game at 7:05 p.m., featuring a matchup between the Utica Unicorns and the Westside Woolly Mammoths. Join fellow alumni for a group photo on the field, an opportunity to meet the mascots, and watch a fireworks display. The cost is $38 per person and covers the BBQ buffet, game tickets with table seating at field level, and complimentary parking in Lot A. Tickets will be available for pick up at a check-in table near the main gate. Children three and under do not require a ticket. All-You-Can-Eat BBQ Picnic Menu: Hot dogs BBQ pulled chicken Smoked sausage with peppers & onions Baked beans Pasta salad Coleslaw Cookies Unlimited soft drinks, lemonade, iced tea, and water Timeline for the day: 6:05 p.m. Gates open 6:05 - 7:35 p.m. BBQ picnic at the Left Field Patio 7:05 p.m. Scheduled first pitch Group photo on the field will take place during the game*Beverages will be available throughout the game. Jimmy John's Field is located at 7171 Auburn Rd, Utica, MI 48317, and the pre-game BBQ will be held within the ballpark at the Left Field Patio. Tickets must be purchased in advance. The deadline to purchase tickets is noon on Tuesday, May 27.