Laura Genik is the new director of Applied Engineering Sciences in Michigan State University’s College of Engineering.
Genik is an academic specialist in the College of Engineering Undergraduates Studies Office, with teaching responsibilities in the college’s Cornerstone and Residential Experience and AES programs.
“I am humbled by the appointment to lead this established program in the College of Engineering,” Genik said. “I’m looking forward to honing the vision of AES for the college, the university and the broader community.”
AES students study a core that combines math, statistics and basic science across most engineering disciplines. It prepares students with strong analytical capabilities, business knowledge, leadership and communications skills.
The program has more than 250 students, nearly double its student population of just six years ago.
Genik earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in mechanical engineering from MSU. She began her academic career at the University of Portland and served as visiting faculty at Wayne State University before coming to MSU in January 2007.
Her scholarly research focuses on engineering education. She has been recognized with outstanding teaching nominations and awards at each institution in which she has taught, including the Withrow Teaching Award at MSU from the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Most recently, Genik was selected to participate in the National Academy of Engineering event Frontiers of Engineering Education, a symposium for innovative, engineering educators.