GW Engineering hosts a wide range of high-impact research, reflecting our commitment to addressing society’s grand challenges. For over two years, the Friday Engineering Science Seminar Series (FRIES^3) has provided students in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) with a valuable platform for presenting their research and forging connections with fellow engineers. From innovations in pathology imaging to breakthroughs in cancer therapies, these biweekly gatherings showcase cutting-edge research while fostering collaboration.
“As a department and school, there’s a vast diversity in people and research that should be recognized, especially among graduate students. As engineers, we don’t all have the same background, and we all focus on different research. However, there are still countless opportunities for collaboration and input,” said Dan Hunter, an organizer of the FRIES^3 Seminars.
Each seminar begins with two presentations from GW Engineering graduate students and post-doctoral researchers, with occasional guest appearances from surrounding universities like the University of Maryland, College Park, and industry. Following the presentations, attendees can explore the research topics further by asking questions directly to the presenters. The event concludes with a networking hour, where participants can continue their conversations while enjoying snacks and a slice of pizza.
“FRIES^3 is a great opportunity for graduate students to gain experience presenting in a low-pressure environment before greater milestones,” Hunter stated. “For first-time attendees, it could be key to finding new opportunities to join a lab and starting down the path of research, having been exposed to more than what is covered in classes.”
At the November 8th FRIES^3 seminar, presenters Vikas Soni and Sara Youssoufi illustrated the broad expertise of the MAE Department. Soni, a Postdoctoral Scientist in GW’s Micropropulsion and Nanotechnology Laboratory, discussed his work using cold plasma as an innovative approach to cancer therapy, while Youssoufi, a Ph.D. candidate in Prof. Elias Balaras’ Laboratory, presented an overview of her research in industrial nuclear engineering. Together, these presentations showcased the diverse range of research and innovation happening across different areas of engineering within the department.
FRIES^3 is a unique platform for learning and connection, offering students in the MAE Department and across the school an opportunity to engage with complex research and connect with peers. The final FRIES^3 seminar for the Fall 2024 semester takes place on December 6 in the Lehman Auditorium. Don’t miss this opportunity to network, learn, and contribute to this exciting event for the GW Engineering community!