Michael Morse

Michael Morse is a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of San Diego. He holds a PhD from Clemson University and dual MS/BS degrees in Biomedical Engineering from Tulane University. His career spans academia, industry, and legal practice, with expertise in electrical safety, forensic engineering, and the intersection of technology with civil rights law. Morse is a licensed attorney specializing in technology law and has testified as an expert witness in state and federal courts.

• Education: PhD (Clemson University, 1985), MS/BS (Tulane University, 1981–1982)
• Law Degree: Juris Doctor (USD Law School, 1999) with California Bar license
• Affiliations: Tenured Professor, Electrical Engineering; Adjunct in USD's Law School

Morse’s research focuses on electrical accident analysis, diffuse electrical injury mechanisms, and legal implications of product safety. Key areas include forensic investigations of electrical failures, long-term neurological effects of low-voltage exposure, and designing systems resilient to legal scrutiny. His work bridges engineering and law, emphasizing safety standards compliance and public health protection.

His publications explore electrical shock drowning risks, prototype design fixation, and gender differences in injury outcomes. Morse has advised five Master’s students at Auburn University and consults on electromechanical product liability cases. He holds a patent for an electrical stimulation system and has received grants from the NSF.

• Awards: NSF Initiation Grant (1987), Declined IEEE Grant
• Consultancy: Expert in electrical injury litigation and product failure analysis

Morse teaches courses on electrical safety design and legal aspects of engineering. His interdisciplinary approach integrates forensic engineering, biomedical research, and legal ethics to address real-world technological challenges.