Justin Dimmel

Justin Dimmel serves as Associate Dean for Academics and Student Engagement in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development and holds a dual appointment as Associate Professor of Mathematics Education and Instructional Technology in the School of Learning and Teaching. He leads the Immersive Mathematics in Rendered Environments (IMRE) Lab, which pioneers VR/AR tools for STEM education. His 2022 NSF CAREER Award supports research on 3D geometry learning through immersive technologies.

Education: Ph.D. and M.S. in Mathematics (University of Michigan); B.S. in Mathematics and Philosophy (Hartwick College).

Research Focus: Dr. Dimmel’s work reimagines spatial and geometric education through virtual/augmented realities. He explores how movement-based interactions with 3D diagrams enhance mathematical understanding, particularly in geometry. His SunRule project—a solar-powered multiplication/division tool—exemplifies translating lab innovations into public-facing educational tools.

Awards:

• National Science Foundation CAREER Award (2022)

Outreach & Grants: Leads a professional development program for secondary math teachers integrating VR/AR. Spearheads rural Maine STEM outreach via immersive environments, aiming to democratize access to advanced educational technologies. Collaborates with the Maine RiSE Center and UMaine’s MIRTA accelerator.

Labs/Teams: Director of IMRE Lab, fostering collaborations with undergrad/grad researchers on projects like SunRule and VR teaching tools. Active in STEM education policy and teacher training initiatives.