Benjamin Joseph Laugelli

Benjamin Joseph Laugelli is an Associate Professor in the Department of Engineering and Society at the University of Virginia's School of Engineering and Applied Science. His work focuses on the social, ethical, and pedagogical dimensions of engineering practice. He holds a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences from James Madison University (1996), an M.A. (2009) and Ph.D. (2014) in Religious Studies from the University of Virginia.

His research interests include Science, Technology & Society (STS), engineering ethics, sustainable design, LEGO design practices, and the intersection of technology with science fiction. He has received grants such as the 2021 GELS Grant and a 2012 Dissertation Writing Grant. Laugelli teaches courses like STS 1500 (Sustainable Design), STS 2500 (Frankenstein Myth and LEGO Design), and STS 4600 (Engineering Ethics).

His publications emphasize ethical frameworks for engineering education, leveraging interdisciplinary methods such as literary analysis (e.g., Frankenstein) and play-based learning (LEGO®). Recent work explores integrating UN Sustainable Development Goals into curricula and fostering ethical innovation.

His awards reflect recognition for engaged sustainability initiatives and scholarly contributions. Laugelli's teaching bridges technical disciplines with humanities, emphasizing societal impacts of technology.