From Artificial Intelligence to High-Performance Computing: Meet the New Faculty Driving Computing Forward at MTU

The College of Computing is welcoming four new faculty members for the 2025-26 academic year: Neerav Kaushal, Evan Lucas, Jie “JW” Wu and Bo Zhang. Collectively, their expertise spans artificial intelligence (AI), software engineering, environmental sensing and high-performance computing (HPC), strengthening Michigan Tech’s leadership in advanced computing and creating new opportunities for collaboration across disciplines.

If you see them on campus, in the classroom or out in the community, be sure to say hello and give them a warm welcome!

Read more about our new faculty's experience, expertise, and collaborative interests on the Computing News Blog.

University Senate Meeting 723

The University Senate will convene Meeting 723 at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30, in Chem Sci 102.

Those within the University community unable to attend in person have the option to attend the University Senate meeting via Zoom. Please note: You will need to log in to your MTU Zoom account to join the virtual meeting.

Senators are responsible for making their constituents aware of the agenda for this meeting. Senators who are unable to attend should arrange for their alternates to attend in their place.

View the Meeting 723 Agenda.

Campus Dining Survey Closes Friday!

It's not too late to tell us what you think! The Campus Dining Survey closes Friday, Oct. 31.

MTU Dining Services would like to invite you to participate in our annual campus dining survey. Your feedback is extremely important and will be used to help us reinvent your dining experience here on campus. This survey helps us to better understand our students and customers, how they perceive dining, and what is important to them.

Before you start the survey, there are a few important things to note:

  • It’s confidential. We do not release individual data to anyone; survey answers are entirely anonymous.
  • It’s quick. The survey should take 8-10 minutes to complete.
  • Take it before it closes! The deadline to complete the survey is this Friday.
  • Want a chance to win an MTU Gift Bundle? Screenshot your completed survey screen and email the image to huskyeats@mtu.edu with the subject line: V2V

Questions? If you have any questions about the survey process, email huskyeats@mtu.edu or call 906-487-1861.

On behalf of Husky Eats, we thank you for taking the time to participate in this very important initiative and sharing your valuable insights!

Take the Campus Dining Survey.

Used Book Sale at the Library on Saturday

The Friends of the Michigan Tech Library will have a used book sale in the Van Pelt and Opie Library from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov 1. The sale will be held in the first floor exhibit area just past the Circulation Desk.

This will be a smaller sale than the annual used book sale held in the Memorial Union Building each spring. Tables and carts will be filled with some of the most popular-selling subjects, such as art, biography, local history and culture, home and self-help, etc. Prices are $2 for hardcover books and $1 for softcover books.

Please come to browse our many used but quality books! All funds raised by the book sale benefit the Van Pelt and Opie Library.

BioSci Seminar Series Speakers: Jenna R. Disser and Robert A. Larson

Doctoral candidate Jenna R. Disser, M.S., and Robert A. Larson, M.S., Ph.D., assistant professor of human biology, Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, will each present as part of the Biological Sciences (BioSci) Seminar Series at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30, in GLRC 202.

Disser will present "Cardiac norepinephrine content and endogenous release in a mouse model of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy."

From the abstract:
Familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common genetic heart disease with an estimated prevalence of 1:500 individuals in the general population. Sarcomere gene mutations result in the characteristic features of HCM include left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, myocyte disarray, interstitial fibrosis, diastolic dysfunction, and high risk of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death. Human studies in patients with HCM have demonstrated increased cardiac norepinephrine (NE) spillover partly due to reduced neuronal NE reuptake through the neuronal norepinephrine transporter. Our lab has previously reported that conscious alpha-tropomyosin mutant HCM mice have increased cardiac sympathetic tone compared to littermate wild-type (WT) controls. In this study we examined NE levels with an ELISA in the right atrium, left ventricle and the stellate ganglia (cell bodies for the cardiac nerves) in WT and HCM mice. In addition, we will discuss the influence of endogenous neuronal vesicular NE release with tyramine on cardiac function in WT and HCM mice.

Larson will present "PVN SK channel blockade alters the sympathetic nervebursting pattern in angiotensin II-infused rats."

From the abstract:
Sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) is known to demonstrate rhythmic activity that is synchronized with the respiratory and the cardiac cycles. These oscillations arise through integration of signals from lung inflation afferents, baroreceptor afferents, and respiratory neurons in the brainstem that influence presympathetic neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM). The hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) is a prominent regulatory center for SNA and PVN neurons have axon projections to the RVLM. Blockade of small conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) channels in the PVN significantly increases splanchnic and renal SNA and dysfunction of SK channels contributes to the pathogenesis of hypertension. In this study, we analyzed SNA in the frequency domain by calculating power spectral density on 5-minute segments of data. We will discuss similarities and differences in power spectral density in the low (0-2Hz) and high (5-7Hz cardiac) frequency bands at baseline, and after PVN microinjection of the SK channel blocker apamin in control and angiotensin II-infused rats.

In the News

Gary Campbell (COB) was quoted by Spartan Newsroom, Great Lakes Echo, the Escanaba Daily Press and the Iron Mountain Daily News in stories about the economic and environmental implications of renewed interest in domestic mining in the Upper Peninsula, particularly in relation to critical minerals needed for electrification and battery production.

*****

Lisa Gordillo (VPA/CFRES) was quoted by MLive in a story about Michigan Tech’s new nature megaphone installed along the Tech Trails. Gordillo described the 10-foot wooden structure as “an interactive sculpture for the forest” designed to enhance natural sounds and invite contemplative engagement with the environment. Read more about the megaphone on MTU’s Unscripted Research Blog.

*****

WorldAtlas mentioned Michigan Tech’s A. E. Seaman Mineral Museum in a travel feature highlighting Houghton as one of the “12 Cutest Small Towns in Michigan.”

Reminders

3rd Annual Military Care Package Drive

Dear Michigan Tech and Keweenaw Community,

Young Americans for Freedom at Michigan Tech, in partnership with Hubbell VFW Post 4624, invite you to participate in our 3rd Annual Military Care Package Drive.

The drive began yesterday, Oct. 27, and runs through Nov. 14. It will send care packages containing food, hygiene products and entertainment items, as well as handmade letters and artwork, to deployed service members. We aim to bring hope, joy and the comforts of home to deployed troops throughout the holiday season.

You can contribute in the following ways:

  • Donate items from our list and hand-write letters or make artwork.
  • Purchase items from our Amazon Wish List.
  • Make a monetary donation through our GoFundMe or a check made out to VFW Post 4624. Checks can be and mailed to PO Box 51, Hubbell, MI 49934. Money raised will support shipping costs and purchasing of additional goods.
  • Share the address of your deployed family member or friend through our ShipThrifty account so we can send them a package.
  • Follow our Instagram and Facebook for updates.
  • Get your business involved by donating money, a product you sell, or letters from your employees. Donors will be recognized in a recap email to the community and on our social media.

Donated items can be dropped off at the following locations:

  • Matt’s Auto Body and Glass, 47170 Hwy M-26, Atlantic Mine, MI 49905
  • Superior Family Chiropractic, 41950 Wilson Memorial Dr., Chassell, MI 49916
  • Keweenaw Coffee Works, 113 5th St., Calumet, MI 49913
  • Michigan Tech’s Van Pelt and Opie Library, 1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton, MI 49931
  • Email amleagje@mtu.edu for a large pickup!

If you are interested in working with us to help support our troops, please contact YAF member Abigail Leagjeld at amleagje@mtu.edu for additional information or with questions. We would love to share more information with you and meet either virtually or in person.

Thank you for your support. Let's make this drive a success together, supporting those who risk their lives for our freedom and thanking them for their service.

*****

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes Event

Join the Michigan Tech campus community tomorrow, Oct. 29, from 2-4 p.m. in front of the Hamar House for the annual Walk A Mile in Her Shoes® event sponsored by registered student organization Sexual Assault & Violence Education (SAVE), Greek Life, Undergraduate Student Government (USG) and the Title IX Awareness Committee.

This event wraps up October's Domestic Violence Awareness Month. A table with community and campus resources will be staffed outside of the Hamar House, where you'll have the opportunity to walk from the Hamar House to the Alumni Gateway Arch in a pair of heeled shoes. There is an old saying: "You can't understand another person's experience until you've walked a mile in their shoes."

Since 2001, men, women and their families around the world have joined award-winning Walk a Mile in Her Shoes®: The International March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault & Gender Violence.

This event is an opportunity to raise awareness in our community about the serious causes, effects and remediations to sexualized violence.

*****

Genomic Technologies Themed Coffee Hour

Please join us for coffee, tea and snacks at our second Genomic Technologies Themed Coffee Hour sponsored by the Ecosystem Science Center and the Great Lakes Research Center. The coffee hour will be held in the U. J. Noblet Forestry Building Atrium today, Oct. 28, at 3 p.m.

All students, staff and faculty with an interest in genomic technologies and their applications are welcome! This is a great opportunity to socialize with colleagues across centers, institutes and colleges. We hope to see you there!

*****

2025 MTU 3MT Competition – Bigger Prizes, More Judges, Greater Impact!

Hurry! Registration for the 2025 MTU Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition closes this week on Thursday, Oct. 30!

Register for Three Minute Thesis.

This year's MTU 3MT Competition will take place next Tuesday, Nov. 4. The 3MT competition is open to all MTU graduate students, as it challenges you to present your research to a general audience within three minutes. Graduate Student Government invites you again to present your work at this exciting event.

Increased Prize Money
Great news! Cash prizes have doubled! The winner and runner-up will now receive cash prizes of $600 and $400, respectively, while the People’s Choice award winner selected by the event’s audience will be given a cash prize of $200. In addition, the winner of the local Michigan Tech competition will earn the opportunity to present at the regional 3MT competition.

For more information on the competition, please send an email to gsg-research@mtu.edu.

Today's Campus Events

To have your event automatically appear, please submit them to the University Events Calendar.

Nanowonder: Images of the Microscopic World Gallery Exhibit - Rozsa Art Galleries

MICHIGAN TECH ART SERIES EVENT For centuries, humanity has been fascinated with the microscopic world. Through advancements in technology, visually investigating this hidden landscape has become increasingly possible. One of these devices, the Hitachi Scanning Electron Microscope, allows us to see the microscopic surface of things more clearly than ever before. The Art Galleries at MTU’s Rozsa Center are proudly hosting a juried exhibition of photographs taken by the Hitachi SEM during its residency at Michigan Tech. Titled Nanowonder, this exhibition is truly collaborative and emphasizes how powerful the relationship between science and the arts can be. See beyond the surface of your stuff for free! The Hitachi Scanning Electron Microscope will be on location at the gallery reception on Friday September 26, 5-7pm. The reception is free, open to all, and light refreshments will be served. All are welcome to bring a small (approx 1"x1"), dry, flat sample to be scanned by the microscope technicians. Support for this event provided by Hitachi, ACMAL (Applied Chemical and Morphological Analysis Laboratory) at Michigan Tech, A. E. Seaman Mineral Museum, Michigan Tech Visual and Performing Arts Department, Michigan Tech Biomedical Engineering Department, Michigan Tech Materials Science and Engineering Department, and Michigan Tech College of Sciences and Arts. Things to know ROZSA ART GALLERIES HOURS | M-F 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Saturdays 1-8 p.m. EXHIBIT DATES | September 12-November 7, 2025 RECEPTION | Friday, September 26, 2025 | 5-7 p.m. ADMISSION| Free and open to the public CONTENT GUIDANCE | none Plan your visit with information about parking, accessibility, and more. Rozsa Art Galleries are open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. M-F and 1-8 p.m. on Saturdays. Closed during academic recesses. Contact the Rozsa Box Office for more information. Thanks to Our Sponsors Support for this Michigan Tech Art Event provided by: and the Visual and Performing Arts Circle of Supporters. About the Presenter Professional exhibitions in the Rozsa Art Galleries. Student showcases. Artist Talks with Studio Here Now. Cross-campus collaborations. The Michigan Tech Art Series offers dynamic programming that supports Michigan Tech students and our wider community. Part of the the annual Rozsa Season, the Michigan Tech Art, Music, and Theatre Series are presented by the Visual and Performing Arts Department. Through these series, students from across campus, community members, and faculty create art that connects us to the world. With majors in audio production and technology, sound design, theatre and entertainment technology, and nine minors, the department fosters creativity, self-motivation, and the development of practical and artistic skills. Everyone is welcome, and there's something for everyone. View all Michigan Tech Art Series Events. Related Events Nanowonder: Images of the Microscopic World Gallery Exhibit - Rozsa Art Galleries September 12-November 7, 2025 Reception | Friday, September 26, 2025 | 5-7 p.m. Artful Intersections: Fall Student Art Showcase - Rozsa Art Galleries November 21-December 2, 2025 Reception | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 5-7 p.m. Through the Quiet Hours: Night Sky Photography Gallery Exhibit - Rozsa Art Galleries January 16-23, 2026 Reception | Friday, January 16, 2026 | 5-7 p.m. Women's Rights are Human Rights Gallery Exhibit - Rozsa Art Galleries January 30-March 28, 2026 Reception | Friday, January 30, 2026 | 5-7 p.m. Beyond the Frame: Spring Student Art Showcase - Rozsa Art Galleries April 10-14, 2026 Reception | Friday, April 10, 2026 | 5-7 p.m. Explore upcoming Michigan Tech Art Events. Plan Your Visit to the Rozsa Rozsa Box Office InformationAccessibility Services Find a Digital ProgramPlan your Parking​ Get Involved Volunteer to UsherDonate to Support the RozsaMeet Our DonorsGet Updates via Email View All Upcoming Events Personal Responsibility Statement Not all productions may appeal to or be appropriate for every person or for all ages. The Rozsa Center provides content guidance to alert audience members to common potentially sensitive or distressing material. Guests are encouraged to familiarize themselves with each event in order to make informed decisions prior to attending an event. Views Expressed Statement The views, information, thoughts, or opinions expressed in this program or event are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent the policies of the Rozsa Center or Michigan Technological University. Effective Date: 2025/26.

*****

PhD Defense: Ashwin Karthik Purushothaman

Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics Advisor: Youngchul Ra NUMERICAL MODELLING AND CO-OPTIMIZATION OF GASOLINE FUELS FOR GASOLINE COMPRESSION IGNITION USING MULTI COMPONENT APPROACH Attend Virtually: https://michigantech.zoom.us/s/83296404753

*****

HuskyGOLD Information Session

Learn about Michigan Tech’s new HuskyGOLD program, designed to prepare students for lifelong engagement in their communities. With a variety of options, you can shape your own HuskyGOLD path based on what matters most to you. This session will cover what the program is, how it works, and how you can join. Find more details about HuskyGOLD on the Student Leadership & Involvement website.

*****

Reading Group on Early Christian Thought: St. Augustine of Hippo’s Confessions

Join us on Tuesdays at noon for the Fall 2025 reading group on early christian though! What? St. Augustine of Hippo’s Confessions Where? 3rd Floor of Walker, Peterson Library (120C on 9/16 during Peterson renovations) When? Tuesdays at Noon starting Sep 9, 2025 Who? You! No prior knowledge of Augustine, theology, ethics, or Christianity required– this reading group is open to all! This reading group is hosted by Dr. T rish Grosse Brewer (tgbrewer@mtu.edu, Humanities). Dr. Brewer’s educational background is in philosophy and religion and her research focuses on the thought of Augustine of Hippo. Augustine’s Confessions is considered to be the first autobiography. In it, a middle aged Bishop gives an account of his birth to his conversion to Christianity and the death of his mother. The book concludes with an exploration of the first three books of Genesis. W e will determine our reading pace together in the first meeting. We will use the Chadwick translation.

*****

Open Enrollment Informational Session

*****

Linux workshop

This workshop will introduce you to the essentials of Linux, Git, and version control. You’ll learn how to set up and navigate a Linux environment, manage files and directories, and understand commonly used commands. The session will also cover the basics of Git, including creating repositories, committing changes, branching, and collaborating on projects through version control. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a solid foundation to confidently use Linux and Git for coursework, research, or collaborative development projects.

*****

Internship Panel 10/28

Join ASME for an Internship Panel from 6-8pm on Tuesday 10/28! Ask questions of our experienced panelists to learn more about finding internships and what to expect once you are at your job. We will also be hosting a raffle with items from local businesses and serving complimentary Jimmy Johns! Please RSVP at this link:https://forms.gle/6yi2MXPPjtu9LwiaA If you are interested in being a panelist please fill out this form: https://forms.gle/SPsALCEtsdA4JHZ8A

*****

NCSA General Meeting

NCSA's weekly meeting is where we cover what's going on in the organization, often followed by a guest presenter, then discussion of what's going on in the world of tech. Meeting time and location may be subject to changes (ex. room conflicts, guest availability). Announcements will be made in NCSA's Discord server, invite link available via our website.

*****

San Francisco Alumni Social

Calling all Bay Area Huskies! Join Dennis Livesay, dean of the College of Computing, for an alumni social on Tuesday, October 28, at Hi Dive from 6-8 p.m. local time. Feel free to stop by as your schedule allows and hear firsthand about the exciting happenings in the College of Computing and at Tech overall. Enjoy an evening of networking with fellow Michigan Tech alumni and forging new connections. Hi Dive is located at 28 Pier, San Francisco, CA 94105. Alumni and friends will have the opportunity to score some MTU-branded swag, courtesy of the Alumni Engagement Office. Food and beverages will be available for individual purchase. There is no charge to attend but please RSVP to ensure we have an accurate headcount.

*****

Women's Volleyball at Northern Michigan

Women's Volleyball at Northern Michigan Marquette, MI

*****

Student Community Meal

Join us for our weekly free student meal, held Tuesdays during the semester at Good Shepard Lutheran Church. Come to cook, serve, eat, clean up, or all of the above! Cooking begins at 5pm and anyone is welcome to help cook. The meal is served from 6:30pm-7:30pm and any students are welcome to eat at the church and visit with friends or take a to-go box! If you would like to help with the meal but can't be there at 5, we also welcome people to help clean up from around 6:30pm to about 8pm. To stay up to date on weekly menus, follow the LCM instagram @lcm.mtu