COB Dean Semifinalist Presenting at Open Forum

The College of Business (COB) Dean Search Committee has invited three semifinalist candidates to Michigan Tech for on-campus interviews.

Candidate 1 Open Forum Presentation:
Thursday, Jan. 22, at 2 p.m. in Chem Sci 102

The first candidate’s interview will be held next Thursday and Friday, Jan. 22 and 23. The candidate will present their administrative philosophy and vision for COB at an open forum at 2 p.m. on Thursday in the Chemical Sciences and Engineering Building, Chem Sci 102.

Information on all candidates, interview dates and open forum information can be viewed at the Academic Affairs Dean Search page. A Michigan Tech login is required to view resumes and provide comment. The open forums will be video recorded and posted to the website for viewing.

The COB Dean Search Committee encourages the campus community to interact with each candidate during the interviews and to provide feedback by completing the anonymous comment form provided at the website. Feedback forms will be available for 72 hours following the last candidate.

Jae Suh Selected for Deans' Teaching Showcase

College of Sciences and Arts Dean LaReesa Wolfenbarger has selected Jae Suh, associate professor in the Department of Physics, for the 2026 Deans’ Teaching Showcase. Suh will be recognized at an end-of-term event with other spring showcase members and is a candidate for the CTL Instructional Award Series.

Suh joined Michigan Tech in 2014. He is a dedicated teacher-scholar and has taught a range of undergraduate courses, including the department’s first-year inquiry lab (PH1100), Electronics for Scientists (PH2230) and graduate courses Quantum Mechanics (PH5210) and Electrodynamics.

“Dr. Suh is recognized among Physics majors as a professor who genuinely engages students in the learning process. He is extremely organized, personable, highly motivated, and energetic to guide students effectively through undergraduate or graduate courses,” said Physics chair Ravi Pandey.

Suh teaches students majoring in physics, geophysics and electrical engineering, and recognizes the range of differences in how students learn. He engages students with a variety of teaching methods and strategies, as well as supplemental instruction. He showcases real-world applications by connecting modern physics breakthroughs to mathematical concepts in his courses so that students apply their knowledge to recent discoveries. One student commented, “I enjoyed how the class was strongly centered on relating quantum operations to their experimental discoveries. I wish I could take this course again!”

Students appreciate Suh’s ability to highlight the overarching significance and big picture of each subject, helping them grasp the broader context before presenting more technical details. Another student complimented his teaching ability, saying “(You) are very good at explaining things in a way that makes the math less intimidating.” Suh has received high student evaluation scores across physics courses, including electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics and electronics. “Offer Quantum Mechanics II!” suggested a third student.

Suh designs courses in alignment with MTU’s strategic plan for education to respond to the needs and challenges of the 21st century. He taught a new course in fall 2025, Intro to Quantum Optics, during the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, to meet and grow student interest in quantum technologies.

“What truly sets Dr. Suh’s teaching apart is the direct integration of experimental demonstrations to reveal technical subtleties that are not evident in textbook diagrams,” said Pandey. “Dr. Suh blends mathematically complete lectures, hands-on computational practice, and authentic laboratory experience — a rare combination in an undergraduate setting. For example, in Intro to Quantum Optics, students not only learned what quantum optics is but also how it is simulated, measured, and how it forms the backbone of emerging quantum technologies. This course represents a significant step toward preparing the next generation of scientists for quantum-driven technologies that will reshape our world.” 

Students learned even more than Suh planned about the significance of the topic. During the course, groundbreaking contributions to supercomputing quantum computing architecture won the Nobel Prize in Physics, further underscoring the importance of quantum optics and its connection to 21st century needs and challenges.

“Dr. Suh receives this nomination because he is so dedicated to using a holistic rather than a siloed approach. He teaches students more than how to solve a textbook problem. Students also discover how moving between theory, computation and laboratory experiences leads to cutting-edge scientific discoveries,“ said Wolfenbarger.

Michigan Tech Robotics Initiative Hosting Rollout Event

The Michigan Tech Robotics Initiative is a new group at Michigan Tech with the goal of bringing together faculty, students and laboratories from across the University to advance robotics research, education and innovation. 

Headed by Jung Yun Bae (MAE/AC), the initiative will be hosting its rollout event on Jan. 27 at noon in the MUB Alumni Lounge. Food and refreshments will be provided.

For more information, visit the Michigan Tech Robotics Initiative website.

Add a Minor to Your Major! Save the Date for the Husky Minor Fair

Michigan Tech’s Husky Minor Fair is an opportunity for students to explore curriculum that can help you identify your own personal interests and give you an “edge up” in your job search, while adding skills that will prepare you for a career that has yet to be created. 

We hope to see you at the academic minor fair on Jan. 28 from 3:30-5 p.m. in the Van Pelt and Opie Library’s East Reading Room to help you explore your minor opportunities.

In today’s competitive job market, employers are looking for flexible candidates who can bring diverse skills and knowledge to their role. Completing an academic minor in addition to your major adds skills desired by employers, and can also end up enriching a student’s professional career and personal life. Minors give you a unique edge in your search for a job or career by illustrating how your unique combination of abilities set you apart from other professionals in your field. 

The National Association of Colleges and Employers surveyed employers in 2025 to inquire what talents they were looking for in new graduates. The top 10 skills employers are searching for included:

  • Problem-solving skills (88.3%)
  • Ability to work in a team (81.0%)
  • Written communication skills (77.1%)
  • Initiative (73.7%)
  • Strong work ethic (73.2%)
  • Technical skills (73.2%)
  • Verbal communication skills (69.3%)
  • Flexibility/adaptability (67.0%)
  • Analytical/quantitative skills (67.0%)
  • Detail-oriented (65.9%)

Additional valued skills included interpersonal skills, computer skills, leadership, entrepreneurial skills, creativity, and strategic planning skills.

Employers noted they wanted to hear how prospective hires acquired these skills, whether through their diverse coursework, projects or experiences, in stories shared through their resumes and in follow-up interviews. Employers said these stories would provide recruiters evidence that the candidate had acquired and already utilized skills needed to do the job and excel at it.

See the list of minors that will be shared with you by the academic units that oversee them on the Essential Education Newsblog.

For academic units still wanting to participate in the minor fair, contact Steve Patchin at shpatchi@mtu.edu.

CTL Spring 2026 Faculty Book Club: 'The Opposite of Cheating'

Are you concerned that your students are not acting with academic integrity? Are you looking for strategies to encourage students not to use generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) or other non-authorized tools to complete assignments?

Please join the William G. Jackson Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) Spring 2026 Faculty Book Club focused on “The Opposite of Cheating: Teaching for Integrity in the Age of AI” by Tricia Gallant and David Rettinger.

During five biweekly sessions, we will learn about and discuss strategies that faculty can implement in their courses to foster a community of academic integrity and to design assignments that reduce the incentive for students to cheat. Please join us on Thursdays at 2 p.m. in Library 243 starting on Jan. 29.

Sign Up for “The Opposite of Cheating” Book Club.

For accommodations, please contact Catharine Gruver at cgruver@mtu.edu or 906-487-3026.

Take Green Campus Enterprise's Shuttle Routing Survey

The Green Campus Enterprise’s Transport Team is collecting data on which stops, arrival times and departure times are preferable to users of the Hancock Commuter and Evening Shuttles.

Additionally, the team would like feedback on how the routes are communicated to users.

If you use these routes, please fill out our Shuttle Schedule Preferences survey by next Sunday, Jan. 25.

Tonight! National Geographic Live: Earth After Dark

Tonight, Jan. 16, at 7:30 p.m., the Rozsa Center invites the public to embrace the evening, free of charge, at “National Geographic Live: Earth after Dark.” Join National Geographic Explorer Babak Tafreshi as he uncovers the stories that happen when night falls here on Earth.

Tafreshi has spent his career documenting wildlife, humanity and the cosmos — from dark national parks to bright urban areas — with the belief that people everywhere can connect through the shared experience of simply looking up.

“I have been absolutely amazed by all of the local photographers that have told me that Babak is somebody that they’ve followed for years and that they’re thrilled to have him here to speak at the Rozsa,” said Kiersten Birondo, executive director for the Rozsa Center.

From the Milky Way to meteor showers to fireflies that emerge at dusk on neighborhood streets, our eyes open a little wider at Tafreshi’s stunning photos and videos.

Come Early! Night Sky Art Exhibit Reception: 5-7 p.m.
In coordination with “National Geographic Live: Earth After Dark,” Rozsa Galleries Director Terri Jo Frew, with assistance from local artist Thomas Oliver, has curated a showcase of works by local artists inspired by the Keweenaw after nightfall. A reception for “Through the Quiet Hours: Night Sky Exhibit” will take place in the Rozsa Art Galleries just before Tafreshi’s presentation, from 5-7 p.m. tonight, Jan. 16.

“Earth After Dark” attendees are encouraged to arrive a little early to enjoy the art exhibit. “Through the Quiet Hours” is free and open to the public from Jan. 16-23 during regular gallery hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 1-8 p.m.

Job Postings

Job Posting for Friday, Jan. 16, 2026

Staff and faculty job descriptions are available on the Human Resources website. For more information regarding staff positions, call 906-487-2280 or email humanresources@mtu.edu. For more information regarding faculty positions, contact the academic department in which the position is posted.

Director of Global Campus and Continuing Education, Global Campus and Continuing Education.

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Accommodations are available. If you require any auxiliary aids, services, or other accommodations to apply for employment or for an interview at Michigan Technological University, please notify the Human Resources office at 906-487-2280 or humanresources@mtu.edu.

In the News

DBusiness, the Iosco County News-Herald, Howell’s WHMI 93.5-FM and 102.3 WYBR-FM of Big Rapids reported on a new Michigan Association of State Universities study showing Michigan’s public universities generate nearly $45 billion in annual economic activity. The report highlighted the statewide impact of the four R1 institutions, including MTU, through research, workforce development, and innovation.

My UP Now and the Keweenaw Report quoted Michigan Tech student David Reeves (computer science) in coverage of the Copper Country Robotics team completing the 72-hour Robot in 3 Days challenge and aiming to inspire local high school robotics teams through community engagement and livestreamed collaboration.

WLUC TV6 mentioned the Michigan Tech Aquanauts in a story about the return of the Portage Canal Polar Plunge as part of Hancock’s Heikinpäivä midwinter festival, noting the student organization’s role in supporting volunteer safety for the event.

The Keweenaw Report featured Michigan Tech’s CyberHusky program, led by Yu Cai (AC/CS), highlighting high school students who earned top placements at the 2025 CyberPatriot National Youth Cyber Defense Competition. The competition was highlighted on Michigan Tech’s Computing News Blog.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and 14 regional outlets mentioned Michigan Tech alum Deedra Irwin ’15 (B.S. Exercise Science) in its roundup of Wisconsin-tied athletes heading to the 2026 Winter Olympics. Irwin, a three-sport athlete while at Michigan Tech, will compete in biathlon after previously earning a seventh-place finish at the Beijing Games.

Reminders

Tomorrow: MTU's Second Annual Zero Waste Hockey Game

Michigan Tech is gearing up for the University’s second annual Zero Waste Hockey Game, challenging fans to help the Huskies reduce waste during their matchup against Minnesota State tomorrow, Jan. 17.

Attendees will notice several sustainability-friendly changes at the game, including compostable packaging at concessions, waste collection stations with clearly marked recycling and composting bins, and volunteer support to guide proper waste sorting. Volunteers will ensure proper waste management after the game, partnering with Partridge Creek Compost to divert materials from landfills.

This event is a collaborative effort between MTU Athletics, Husky Eats and the Office of Sustainability and Resilience.

Interested in volunteering during the Zero Waste Hockey Game? Multiple volunteer shifts are available and volunteers gain free entry into the game. Sign up to volunteer and support sustainability efforts on campus!

*****

Chemistry Seminar Series Speaker: Virender K. Sharma

Virender K. Sharma, professor from the Department of Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering at the University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, will be presenting virtually this week as part of the Chemistry Seminar Series. The seminar will be held over Zoom today, Jan. 16, from 3-4 p.m.

Join the Chemistry Seminar on Zoom (use password 397934).

Sharma's presentation is titled “High-Valent Iron Species (FeVI, FeV, and FeIV) in Water Sustainability and Public Health.”

From the abstract:
Society is facing numerous challenges like climate change, water scarcity, vector-borne diseases, microbial pathogens, and antibiotics in water. The solution to such difficulties is in innovative approaches that utilize environmentally friendly earth abundant elements having multiple roles. We have been examining the use of high-valent iron oxides as green and advanced molecules in various societal problems. Iron in the plus 6-oxidation state (Ferrate, FeVIO42-) has multiple modal actions in oxidizing micropollutants (e.g., antibiotics), in coagulating toxic metals (e.g., arsenic and lead) to achieve water sustainability, and in disinfecting water and surfaces (e.g., Clostridium difficile and Murine Norovirus) to enhance population health care. “Activated Ferrate” (FeV and FeIV) are relatively short-lived transients when produced in aqueous solution (e.g., FeVO43-, FeIVO44-, FeIVO32-, and FeO2+) and can degrade recalcitrant pollutants and microorganisms in water and hospital surfaces with high efficiency in seconds, which would otherwise take several minutes or hours by Ferrate without activation. Examples of Ferrate in sterilization of vegetables and fruits and water splitting and recent research on single atom catalysts and metal-organic frameworks in abatement of micropollutants will be presented.

Sharma received his Ph.D. from Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (RSMAS), University of Miami, in 1989. He has made seminal contributions in the areas of chemistry and environmental applications of ferrate. Sharma has made exceptional contributions in the field concerning the occurrence and remediation of toxins, antibiotics, nanoparticles and microplastics/nanoplastics to address real-world challenges of water, energy, and food sustainability.

Sharma’s mission is saving lives, even one life. Currently, he is serving as an associate editor or editorial member for several international journals. He has published more than 470 peer-reviewed journal publications, 60 book chapters and 36 proceedings, and has authored one and edited seven books. He has been recognized as a highly cited researcher (top 1%) by the Clarivate (Web of Science) and credited with more than 50,000 Google Scholar citations. His h-index is 110. 

He is a member of Academia Europaea (MAE) and is a fellow of several scientific societies, including the American Association of Advancement of Science (AAAS), European Academy of Sciences (EurASc), American Chemical Society (ACS) and Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). His distinguished awards include the Humboldt Research Award, Southwest Region ACS Award, Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water (PSIPW), Bush Excellence Award for International Research, Steven K. Dentel AEESP Award for Global Outreach, Sigma Xi Outstanding Distinguished Scientist Award and Invited Research Professorships in France.

*****

Bigfoot Glowshoe 2026

Join Michigan Tech’s Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) for our annual Bigfoot Glowshoe event, being held on the Michigan Tech Trails! The event promises to be a glowing good time — all are welcome, and no prior snowshoeing experience is required. Pre-registration is required and includes beanies, glowsticks and more!

Event Details:

  • What: Bigfoot Glowshoe 2026
  • When: Thursday, Feb. 5, with 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. start times available
  • Where: OAP Rental Center — Tech Trails Trailhead
  • Registration: Register for Bigfoot Glowshoe 2026 (pre-registration is required)

Registration Cost:

  • MTU Students: $5.50 (snowshoe rental included)
  • General Public – Bringing Snowshoes: $5.50
  • General Public – Renting Snowshoes: Additional $5.50

For more information, visit our Bigfoot Glowshoe 2026 webpage at Michigan Tech Recreation.

Questions? Email the OAP Rental Center at oap@mtu.edu or call 906-487-2290 and leave a voicemail.

We are actively seeking volunteers for this event! See our volunteer information PDF for more information. Register to volunteer on GivePulse.

Today's Campus Events

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

Master's Defense: Meng Wu

Civil Engineering Advisor: Zhanping You LABORATORY INVESTIGATION OF BINDER AND MIXTURE PERFORMANCE OF HIGH CONTENT CRUMB RUBBER MODIFIED ASPHALT

*****

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Art Display

Michigan Technological University invites students, staff, faculty, and community members to submit original artwork honoring the legacy and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As part of the 2026 MLK Day Celebration and the theme “United through Service,” this exhibit showcases creative reflections on justice, unity, service, and Dr. King’s enduring influence. All submitted pieces will be displayed in the Van Pelt and Opie Library Exhibit Area from Friday, January 16th through Monday, January 26th. Artwork will also be featured during the MLK Celebration Dinner so attendees can enjoy and engage with the pieces. We welcome visual art of all forms—including drawings, paintings, graphic art, photography, mixed media, and written or illustrated tributes. Submission Link: https://forms.gle/gq9FChe13jkoPFkC7 Submission Deadline: Prior to the exhibit opening on January 16th Join us in celebrating the power of art, activism, and community as we honor Dr. King’s message and highlight the creativity of our campus and local youth.

*****

Recent Developments in the Pathogenesis of Nipah Viral Diseases

Biomedical Engineering Research Seminar Bapi Pahar, Ph.D. Michigan Technological University Abstract Nipah virus, a highly pathogenic zoonotic paramyxovirus, leads to severe respiratory and neurological diseases in humans, with a case-fatality rate of approximately 60%. In this presentation, I will provide an overview of this disease and the advancements made in vaccine research to date. Additionally, I will discuss my recent studies on Nipah virus pathogenesis in animal models and explore the virus-cell interactions using an organon-chip model. Bio Bapi Pahar, holding degrees in B.V.Sc. & A.H., M.V.Sc., Ph.D., M.B.A., and PMP, is a senior research engineer scientist at the Translational Health Engineering Research Center at Michigan Technological University (MTU), MI, USA. While pursuing his master's degree in India, he created a commercially produced vaccine for infectious bursal disease (IBD). He obtained his M.B.A. in entrepreneurship and international business from Tulane University and completed postdoctoral training at the University of California, Davis. Dr. Pahar has previously worked as an associate professor at Tulane University, where he focused on the pathogenesis…

*****

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Art Making Workshop

Join the Black Student Association for a creative, hands-on art and sign-making workshop in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This space invites students to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy through art, expression, and community building. Participants will create artwork and protest signs to be used in the Peace March and featured in a collective art display, highlighting themes of justice, unity, service, and hope. All skill levels are welcome, and supplies will be provided. Come create, connect, and prepare to make your voice visible.

*****

Hockey Game with LCM

Need a fun group to attend a Tech hockey game with? Come cheer on the Huskies with Lutheran Campus Ministry! We will get in line around 5pm, doors open at 6, and the game starts at 7. Please contact Marin at mptrayno@mtu.edu with any questions. She will be checking her email if anyone is having trouble finding the group.

*****

Little Huskies Volleyball Club

The Little Huskies Volleyball Club is open to boys and girls entering grades K - 4 as of Fall 2025. Focus on fun while you learn to play volleyball! Our Little Huskies Volleyball Club is the perfect way to explore the basics of an active and energetic sport. Once you get into the game, you'll be spiking like a champ. Post-game clinics, game admission, and team pen pals are all part of the fun! Participants can wear their club shirts to Women's Volleyball home matches for free admission! What to Expect Meet and Greet + Big Husky Pen Pals Home Match "Total Experience" Free admission (wear your club T-shirt!) - Reminder - parents must pay to attend.Special cheering section - Look for the "Little Huskies Club" banner.Days/Times October 9 - directly following the NMU match, Meet and Greet, play with the Big Huskies for up to 30 minutes (match at 6 pm EST)January 14, 15, 16 - 5:00-6:00 pm - Skills Sessions with the Big HuskiesCheck-In: Wednesday, January 14, 4:30-5:00 pmPick-Up/Drop-Off: main doors of SDC

*****

Reception for Through The Quiet Hours: Night Sky Art Exhibit - Rozsa Presenting Series and Rozsa Art Galleries

ROZSA PRESENTING SERIES AND MICHIGAN TECH ART SERIES EVENT Through the Quiet Hours will showcase works by local artists inspired by the Keweenaw after nightfall and how it transforms our region in ways both subtle and profound. Presented in conjunction with National Geographic Live: Earth After Dark, this exhibition invites artists to interpret the beauty, mystery, and sense of connection found in the Keweenaw’s nighttime hours. Things to know ROZSA ART GALLERIES HOURS | M-F 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Saturdays 1-8 p.m. EXHIBIT DATES | January 16-23, 2026 RECEPTION | Friday, January 16 | 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 Rozsa Presenting Series and Michigan Tech Art Event provided by: and the Rozsa Center's Circle of Supporters. About the Presenters Professional exhibitions in the Rozsa Art Galleries. Student showcases. Artist Talks with Studio Here Now. Cross-campus…

*****

Snowman Building with Delta Zeta

Join the sisters of Delta Zeta for snowman building! Make sure to bring your snow gear! Rides leave at 5:55 from the Wads lobby. Contact Lili at (651) 600-5423 with any questions. Meet the sisters and hear about what sorority life is all about!

*****

Men's Ice Hockey vs Minnesota State

Men's Ice Hockey vs Minnesota State Houghton, MI

*****

National Geographic Live: Earth After Dark

ROZSA PRESENTING SERIES AND VAN EVERA DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES EVENT We all know winter nights in the U.P. can be long. You are invited to embrace the evening with Photographer Babak Tafreshi as he uncovers the stories that happen when night falls here on Earth. From the Milky Way to meteor showers to fireflies that emerge at dusk on neighborhood streets, our eyes open a little wider at the stunning photos and videos of National Geographic Explorer Babak Tafreshi. He has spent a career documenting wildlife, humanity, and the cosmos - from dark national parks to bright urban areas - with the belief that people everywhere can connect through the shared experience of simply looking up. NOTICE: The Keweenaw Land Trust has partnered with this Rozsa Center event! To celebrate Babak Tafreshi's visit, KLT is hosting three additional outdoor Nature by Night Series events from January 15–18. Bundle up, grab your outdoor gear, and spend this weekend experiencing the magic of winter nights in the Keweenaw! This event is FREE and open to the public through the Van Evera Memorial Endowment. Things to know DATE | Friday, January 16, 2026 TIME | 7:30 p.m. LOCATION | Rozsa Center EST…

*****

Through the Quiet Hours: Night Sky Art Exhibition - Rozsa Presenting Series and Rozsa Art Galleries

ROZSA PRESENTING SERIES AND MICHIGAN TECH ART SERIES EVENT Through the Quiet Hours will showcase works by local artists inspired by the Keweenaw after nightfall and how it transforms our region in ways both subtle and profound. Presented in conjunction with National Geographic Live: Earth After Dark, this exhibition invites artists to interpret the beauty, mystery, and sense of connection found in the Keweenaw’s nighttime hours. Things to know ROZSA ART GALLERIES HOURS | M-F 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and Saturdays 1-8 p.m. EXHIBIT DATES | January 16-23, 2026 RECEPTION | Friday, January 16, 2026 | 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 Rozsa Presenting Series and Michigan Tech Art Event provided by: and the Rozsa Center's Circle of Supporters. About the Presenters Professional exhibitions in the Rozsa Art Galleries. Student showcases. Artist Talks with Studio Here Now. Cross…