THE LATEST FROM THE UNIVERSITY
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The University of Florida has been named one of Forbes’ 2026 “New Ivies,” recognized for its leadership in artificial intelligence education, research and workforce preparation. The list highlights universities preparing students for an AI-driven future through innovative academic programs, expanded research initiatives and industry-focused training opportunities.
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UF engineering graduate programs shine in national rankings
The Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering continues to demonstrate excellence in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings, with multiple programs earning top national recognition. Standout placements include Agricultural and Biological Engineering at No. 6, Nuclear Engineering at No. 13 and Industrial/Systems Engineering at No. 19—highlighting the college’s strength across disciplines.
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UF researchers question reliability of AI text detectors in academic publishing
New research from the University of Florida found that commercially available AI-generated text detectors are often unreliable and inconsistent when evaluating academic writing. The study, led by UF researcher Patrick Traynor, Ph.D., warns that current tools produce high rates of false positives and false negatives, raising concerns about their use in high-stakes academic and professional settings.
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UF engineering marks 80 years of defense research partnership
Eighty years after the University of Florida helped develop technology credited with changing the course of World War II, UF Engineering continues advancing national defense research through Florida Applied Research in Engineering, known as FLARE. From pioneering the radio proximity fuze in the 1940s to today’s secure research in artificial intelligence, advanced weapons systems and workforce development, UF remains a key partner in supporting U.S. defense innovation.
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UF engineers use AI to predict sinkholes before they happen
Researchers at the University of Florida, led by Minhee Kim, Ph.D., are developing AI models that combine geospatial and environmental data to identify early signs of sinkholes. Supported by the National Science Foundation, the project aims to improve prediction and help communities better prepare for potential risks.
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UF engineers develop DNA-guided CRISPR system that improves precision and safety
University of Florida researchers have developed the world’s first CRISPR system guided by DNA instead of RNA, a breakthrough that could make gene-editing diagnostics and therapies safer, more precise and more affordable. Published in Nature Biotechnology, the research introduces a new way to target disease-related RNA while reducing unintended effects and expanding the future potential of CRISPR-based medicine.
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As artificial intelligence continues to increase global energy demands, ECE researcher Volker Sorger, Ph.D., is partnering with NASA to explore how advanced computing technologies could operate in space. The project is testing photonic semiconductor chips aboard the International Space Station to better understand their potential for future AI systems.
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During the University of Florida’s 2026 commencement ceremony, NVIDIA cofounder and UF alumnus Chris Malachowsky (BSEE, '80), encouraged graduates to embrace curiosity, resilience and responsible AI leadership. Drawing from his journey from UF student to tech pioneer, Malachowsky emphasized the importance of momentum, lifelong learning and using artificial intelligence to amplify — not replace — human judgment and creativity.
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UF researchers advance space-based nuclear detection technologies
University of Florida researchers are developing advanced space-based sensing technologies designed to detect and analyze nuclear activity from orbit. Led by nuclear engineering professors Kyle Hartig, Ph.D. and James Baciak, Ph.D., the projects aim to improve nuclear forensics, treaty verification and national security through next-generation radiation, optical and X-ray detection systems.
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UF researchers launch center to improve autonomous systems and drone coordination
UF mechanical and aerospace engineering assistant professor James Fairbanks, Ph.D., is leading a $3.5 million Air Force Research Lab project focused on improving communication and decision-making among autonomous systems such as drones and self-driving vehicles. The research aims to help complex systems operate more efficiently and reliably in dynamic environments.
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE COLLEGE
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16 UF Engineering alumni named among fastest-growing companies
Alumni from the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering were recognized in the 2026 Gator100 by the University of Florida Alumni Association, highlighting some of the fastest-growing Gator-led businesses worldwide. Spanning industries from technology to construction and engineering services, these alumni exemplify innovation, entrepreneurship and the impact of UF Engineering beyond campus.
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Michael Tonks named chair of UF materials science and engineering department
University of Florida professor Michael Tonks, Ph.D. has been named chair of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering following a national search. A nationally recognized researcher in materials science and nuclear engineering, Tonks will lead the department’s continued growth in research, education and industry collaboration focused on energy, security and advanced materials innovation.
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UF ECE honors Hall of Fame inductees and Distinguished Alumni
University of Florida Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering celebrated leaders in engineering by inducting new Hall of Fame members and recognizing its 2026 Distinguished Alumni class. The honorees reflect decades of impact in innovation, leadership and advancing the engineering profession.
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UF ECE professors earn ONR Young Investigator Awards
Farimah Farahmandi and Md Jahidul Islam have received the Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Award, recognizing top early-career researchers. Their work in hardware security and autonomous marine robotics advances innovation in AI, cybersecurity and national defense.
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Five UF Engineering faculty selected for Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida
Five faculty members from the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering have been selected for the 2026 class of the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida. Carlos Rinaldi-Ramos, Ph.D., was named a full member, while Gregory Hudalla, Ph.D., Parisa Rashidi, Ph.D., Whitney Stoppel, Ph.D., and Lakiesha Williams, Ph.D., were selected as associate members recognizing emerging leaders making significant impacts across science, engineering and medicine.
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CISE names cybersecurity leader Kevin Butler as department chair
The Department of Computer & Information Science & Engineering is entering an exciting new chapter with the appointment of Kevin Butler, Ph.D. as department chair. An internationally recognized leader in cybersecurity research, education and policy, Butler’s work has helped advance secure and trustworthy computing across AI, cloud systems, privacy and mobile technologies.
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UF researcher earns NSF CAREER award for membrane aging research
University of Florida chemical engineering professor Janani Sampath, Ph.D. has received a prestigious NSF CAREER Award for research aimed at improving the durability and efficiency of industrial membranes used in water purification and chemical separation. Her work seeks to better understand how membranes degrade at the molecular level, paving the way for more sustainable and energy-efficient technologies.
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UF engineers turn industrial waste into sustainable concrete solutions
Researchers at the University of Florida, led by Christopher Ferraro, Ph.D., are exploring how steelmaking byproducts can be used to create stronger, more sustainable concrete. Supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the project aims to reduce environmental impact while improving durability in infrastructure materials.
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A new laser powder bed fusion system is now operational at the University of Florida, giving students hands-on experience with advanced metal 3D printing. Led by ISE's Jia Peter Liu, Ph.D., the technology supports cutting-edge research, workforce training and innovation in additive manufacturing across multiple engineering disciplines.
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HONORING OUR RETIRING FACULTY
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UF Electrical & Computer Engineering pioneer José Príncipe retires after four decades
Jose Principe, Ph.D. is retiring from the University of Florida after nearly 40 years of groundbreaking work in signal processing, machine learning and computational neuroengineering. A globally recognized leader and mentor to more than 100 Ph.D. students, Príncipe leaves a lasting legacy in advancing artificial intelligence and interdisciplinary research.
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UF Chemical Engineering professors retire after decades of impact
Three longtime faculty members in the University of Florida Department of Chemical Engineering—Mark Orazem, Ph.D., Spyros Svoronos, Ph.D. and Sergey Vasenkov, Ph.D.—are retiring after decades of leadership in research, teaching and mentorship. Their collective legacy has shaped generations of engineers and advanced innovation across the field.
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UF leader Angela Lindner retires after decades of impact in engineering education
After 28 years at the University of Florida, engineering educator and administrator Angela Lindner, Ph.D. is retiring following a career defined by student advocacy, leadership and innovation in undergraduate education. From helping shape programs such as the Engineering Leadership Institute and Engineers Without Borders-UF to mentoring generations of students, Lindner leaves a lasting legacy across UF Engineering and the broader university community.
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CELEBRATING OUR FUTURE ENGINEERS
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UF students design 3D-printed assistive devices for community members
University of Florida students in engineering and occupational therapy are collaborating to create custom 3D-printed assistive devices that improve everyday life for local residents with disabilities and mobility challenges. Through a partnership with the student organization GRiP, the project combines clinical insight and engineering design to deliver personalized, low-cost solutions for needs often overlooked by mass-produced assistive technology.
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UF graduates develop AI-powered app to help students prepare for job interviews
Two recent University of Florida computer science graduates created an AI-powered interview preparation platform designed to help students build confidence and improve behavioral interview skills. Originally developed during UF’s WiNGHacks competition, the app — now called HireGator — recently earned the Best Undergraduate Poster Award at the 2026 UF College of Education Research Symposium.
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UF Engineering student advocates for STEM policy on Capitol Hill
Jayden Nargen represented the University of Florida at IEEE-USA Congressional Visit Day in Washington, D.C., engaging with lawmakers on research funding and STEM workforce initiatives. His experience highlights the growing role of engineering students in shaping national policy and innovation.
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UF Solar Gators unveil new solar car ahead of national competition
The UF Solar Gators unveiled their latest solar-powered race car, Flare, built for endurance and efficiency in upcoming national competitions. With major upgrades to design and performance, the student team is preparing to compete in the Formula Sun Grand Prix and American Solar Challenge this summer.
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GRATEFUL RECOGNITION - $100,000+ GIFTS
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We are deeply grateful to those whose generosity helps Gator Engineers be future-ready leaders through bold research, hands-on learning and forward-thinking innovation!
Richard Reuss – To establish the Richard B. Reuss Engineering Scholarship in the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering.
Dr. H.E. Romeijn – To establish a new endowment supporting students in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering.
ExxonMobil Foundation – To support experiential learning opportunities for first-generation students and students with financial need in the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering.
Dr. Dimitrios Ioannou – To establish a new endowed professorship focused on artificial intelligence research and innovation in the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering.
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Gator Engineers In Action
We’d like to see more of you in our next issue the Florida Engineer … literally! Whether you’re traveling or at work, send us some photos of our Gator Engineers out in the world.
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SUPPORT ENGINEERING STUDENTS
Gifts made to the Dean’s Excellence Fund help students through experiential learning opportunities that emphasize team-based learning, hands-on projects, student-organized competitions, internships, and externships to develop their leadership and innovation skills.
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