January 22, 2025
Trine University faculty members from the Allen School of Engineering and Computing have once again been awarded grants through the Indiana Space Grant Consortium (INSGC), enabling cutting-edge research and experiential learning in fields that support NASA’s strategic interests.
The INSGC is part of NASA’s National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program, supporting educational and research activities that foster growth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields across Indiana.
This year’s projects focus on both traditional aerospace engineering and innovative biomedical research with applications for astronaut health. Four faculty members received a combined total of more than $41,000 in grant funding, with $13,500 directly funding student research internships and experiential positions.
Assistant Professor Gurudutt Chandrashekar, Ph.D. and Professor James Kamm, Ph.D., members of the Wade Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, were each rewarded funding for aerospace-based senior design projects. Associate Professor Max Gong, Ph.D, from the Bock Department of Biomedical Engineering and Professor Amanda Malefyt, Ph.D., from the McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, received funds to support undergraduate research in the areas of astronaut and human health.
Each of these projects provides hands-on opportunities for students to develop critical skills in science and engineering, reflecting the Allen School of Engineering and Computing’s commitment to application-based undergraduate research and experiential learning, while providing meaningful contributions to aerospace and biomedical science.
The INSGC funding not only supports faculty research aligned with NASA’s goals but also provides direct financial support to Trine’s undergraduate students, with $13,500 allocated specifically to funded internships and research roles. These experiences are invaluable in helping students develop the skills necessary for impactful careers in aerospace, biomedical and chemical engineering, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to the future of technology and human health.
Max Gong, Ph.D., associate professor in the Bock Department of Biomedical Engineering, received $15,000 for his fourth INSGC-funded project.
James Kamm, Ph.D., professor in the Wade Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, received his first INSGC grant of $15,000 to replicate two historic wind tunnel balances used by the Wright Brothers.
Assistant Professor Gurudutt Chandrashekar, Ph.D., of the Wade Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, was awarded $6,000 for Trine University’s team in the 2025 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Design/Build/Fly competition.