Laura Hirshfield

Laura Hirshfield is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley, and part of the College of Engineering faculty. She previously held roles as a Lecturer and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Lecturer at the University of Michigan, and served as an Associate Research Scientist there until 2024.

• B.S., University of Michigan (2009)
• Ph.D., Purdue University (2013)
• Postdoctorate, Oregon State University (2013-2014)
• Postdoctorate, Olin College of Engineering & University of Michigan (2014-2016)

Her research focuses on engineering education, with an emphasis on equity, inclusion, and wellness in the student experience. Key areas include:

• Investigating student perceptions of equity and inclusion across engineering majors
• Supporting inclusive mentoring in research groups
• Understanding gender dynamics and dissatisfaction in project teams
• Exploring relationships between confidence, team satisfaction, and task choice
• Assessing impacts of engineering programming on inclusion and mental health
• Studying rural students' transitions into engineering degrees
• Examining community formation for LGBTQIA+ students
• Curricular innovation in chemical engineering

She has received the Chemical Engineering Outstanding Faculty Award (2021) and the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Engineering Instructional Team Award (2023). Laura also serves as Assistant Editor of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Chemical Engineering Education since 2023.