College of Engineering Archives

silhouettes of two firefighters standing in front of massive wilfdire

Is wildfire soot leaving a mark on the world’s oceans?

When clouds of smoke and ash billow out over the ocean, stretching away from the wildfires that are their source, they might not just affect the air quality, according to research by Aron Stubbins, associate professor of marine and environmental sciences at Northeastern.

by Eva Botkin-Kowacki September 17, 2021

A new sustainability seminar lets students propose their own sustainability program. They learn to think critically and propose solutions, says Jacob Glickel, who works in the Office of Sustainability. Photo by Alyssa Stone/Northeastern University

New course to cultivate ideas about how to expand campus sustainability efforts

A weekly seminar this fall will bring together researchers, campus operations, and people who live near the Boston campus into the discussion about the environment. Universities are anchors in their communities, and the class is an opportunity to demonstrate best practices for environmental sustainability and resilience, say faculty experts.

by Peter Ramjug September 7, 2021

A robotic arm mimics the movements of a human hand

The robotics team advances to the semifinals of a global competition

Northeastern’s squad is among 37 teams from 15 countries to make it to the semifinals of a $10 million contest.

by Peter Ramjug September 3, 2021

Can a robot seal air leaks to help this old (and cold) house?

Northeastern won a $200,000 award from the U.S. Energy Department to scale up a model that could one day help with the back-breaking work of filling in energy-wasting air leaks in the crawl spaces of old homes.

by Peter Ramjug August 24, 2021

Here’s how to make sense of the new guidance on booster shots. Photo by Ruby Wallau/Northeastern University

Why the Biden administration now says we need booster shots for COVID-19

New research reveals that COVID-19 vaccine protections began to decline in the middle of the summer when the delta variant was sweeping through the nation. “As we get new information, as the data provides new clues and a new direction in terms of what we need to do, we have to then respond accordingly,” says Neil Maniar, professor of public health practice at Northeastern.

by Eva Botkin-Kowacki August 18, 2021

Could there be an even more effective vaccine? This professor thinks so.

Existing COVID-19 vaccines have far surpassed public health officials’ expectations. But could they be improved upon even further? Yes, says Sidi Bencherif, assistant professor of chemical engineering at Northeastern. Here’s how.

by Eva Botkin-Kowacki August 12, 2021

A student reads on the Northeastern campus.

Looking for something to do in August?

Increase learning comprehension. Explore the basics of Python. Go on a virtual scavenger hunt of Northeastern. These events and many more await you in August.

by Ian Thomsen August 1, 2021

Man wearing a mechanical claw on his right arm

Nimble robotic arms that perform delicate surgery may be one step closer to reality

Northeastern researchers have discovered a way to reduce the friction that causes stiffness in robotic arms. New technology makes the arms lighter and more graceful, offering hope for remote surgery and other applications where safety is paramount.

by Peter Ramjug July 23, 2021

A new wave of COVID-19 infections is surging through Africa. These students want to help.

Africa just marked its worst pandemic week ever. Vaccine shipments to the continent are rolling out slowly. The new president and vice president of Northeastern’s African student club are trying to figure out the best way to lend a hand.

by Peter Ramjug July 12, 2021

These engineering students are heading to Europe to grow robotics relationships

A team of robotics students is headed to an elite summer program in Europe. They hope to share what they have learned with others. Northeastern was one of several international universities with renowned robotics programs chosen for the inaugural collaborative effort.

by Peter Ramjug July 9, 2021