Jennifer Buckley

Jennifer Buckley is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Delaware (UD), where she also holds a secondary appointment in the School of Education. As an alumna of UD (BME 2001), she earned her PhD in Mechanical Engineering from UC Berkeley in 2006. Her expertise spans engineering education, orthopaedic biomechanics, product design, and workforce development. She co-directs The Design Studio, a nationally recognized makerspace, and co-founded The Perry Initiative, a nonprofit fostering gender diversity in orthopaedics and engineering.

Education: PhD (Mechanical Engineering, UC Berkeley, 2006); BS (Mechanical Engineering, UD, 2001); Postdoctoral Fellowship (Orthopaedic Surgery, UCSF).

Research Focus: Dr. Buckley’s work emphasizes inclusive engineering education, curriculum design, and bridging industry needs with academic training. Her research highlights team dynamics in design projects, adaptive learning strategies, and the impact of makerspaces on education.

Publications: Recent articles explore hands-on learning modules, team-based project engagement, and the role of design studios in engineering education. Her work frequently intersects biomechanics and K-12 outreach.

• Awards: ASEE Distinguished Teaching Award, ASEE “20 Under 40” National Award, UD Excellence in Teaching Award.

Grants & Collaborations: Secured NSF, state, and industry funding for education initiatives. Collaborates with Project Lead The Way to disseminate standards-aligned curricula nationally. Founded Faculty Development Mini-Modules for inclusive teaching practices.

Labs/Teams: The Design Studio (UD), The Perry Initiative, and partnerships with Pride Orthopaedics and American Society for Engineering Education.