James Huff

Dr. James Huff is an Associate Professor at the University of Georgia's School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, affiliated with the Engineering Education Transformations Institute. He holds courtesy appointments at Clemson University, Harding University, Oregon State University, and the University of Johannesburg. His research focuses on qualitative studies of identity, emotions, and professionalization in engineering education. He leads the Beyond Professional Identity lab, mentoring students across disciplines on psychological phenomena in STEM equity and well-being. Dr. Huff earned his Ph.D. in Engineering Education from Purdue University, preceded by degrees in Computer Engineering (B.S.) and Electrical and Computer Engineering (M.S.).

Education:

• Ph.D. in Engineering Education, Purdue University
• M.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University
• B.S. in Computer Engineering, Harding University

Research Interests: Dr. Huff's work bridges engineering education and social psychology, particularly examining professional identity, emotional dynamics (e.g., shame), and equity in STEM. He develops methodologies like the Interview Quality Reflection Tool (IQRT) and explores how societal expectations shape marginalized students' experiences. His NSF CAREER Award supports initiatives to cultivate academic cultures prioritizing well-being.

Awards:

• NSF CAREER Awardee (2021)

Advising & Grants: As lab director, he has mentored >15 disciplines' students in qualitative research. His funded projects include studies on design activity engagement in capstone courses and professional shame's impact on faculty-student interactions.

Labs/Teams: Principal Investigator of the Beyond Professional Identity lab, collaborating with institutions globally to address equity, well-being, and psychological aspects of engineering education.