Valpo Professor Honored for Excellence in Research and Creative Work

Shahin Nudehi, Ph.D., P.E., associate professor of mechanical engineering and bioengineering at Valparaiso University’s College of Engineering and the Frederick F. Jenny Professor of Emerging Technology for 2018–2020, received the University’s Award for Excellence in Research and Creative Work for 2019.

Nudehi teaches courses throughout the College’s bachelor’s programs, including bioengineering, electrical and mechanical engineering. In addition to teaching, Nudehi also works to create opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in significant research projects.

“Professor Nudehi has engaged and inspired many students and provided these students with the intellectual training to someday become practicing engineers and researchers themselves,” said Scott Duncan, Ph.D., chair and associate professor of mechanical engineering.

His research interests include acoustic and vibrations, electrochemistry and nonlinear and robust control theories. Nudehi’s work with students on the James S. Markiewicz Solar Energy Research Facility resulted in the design and implementation of the instrumentation in the control room, the electric cabinets and panels for heliostat to track the sun and the heliostat tracking algorithms. He has also contributed to the creation of a mathematical model of Magnesium production solar process, which may eventually lead to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.

In addition, Nudehi worked with students to design and fabricate an ultra-low pressure transducer for Dwyer Instruments to create a sensor that is capable of measuring tiny pressure changes for medical instruments. Dwyer filed two design patents at the end of this project and included Nudehi and his students on the list of inventors.

Nudehi will be recognized for his achievements at the University’s Scholarship and Creative Works Reception, hosted by the Christopher Center Library and the Office of the Provost. This reception will be held on Monday, May 6, at 4:30 p.m. in the Christopher Center Community Room.

The Award for Excellence in Research and Creative Work recognizes a tenured faculty member who has made significant scholarly achievements to his/her discipline and/or to public discourse over the course of his or her career. The awardee is engaged in the national or international conversation within his/her domain of study, demonstrating notable accomplishments and recognition in scholarly, artistic or other relevant communities. The award comes with a $3,000 prize.