Molly Hathaway Goldstein

Dr. Molly Hathaway Goldstein is a Teaching Assistant Professor and Director of the Product Design Lab at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), affiliated with the Grainger College of Engineering's Industrial & Enterprise Systems Engineering (ISE) department. She holds courtesy appointments in Mechanical Science and Engineering, Curriculum & Instruction (College of Education), and Industrial Design (School of Art & Design). Her research focuses on design cognition, generative design methodologies, and engineering education, emphasizing student-centered approaches to design thinking and spatial visualization.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Engineering Education, Purdue University (2018)
  • M.S. in Systems & Entrepreneurial Engineering, UIUC (2006)
  • B.S. in General Engineering, UIUC (2004)

Research Interests: Molly’s work bridges engineering education and design practices, including generative design frameworks, empathy in human-centered design, and STEM education equity. She co-authored the Engineering Design Graphics textbook (3rd ed., 2022) and leads NSF-funded projects on generative design education. Her lab explores tools like AI-driven design software and spatial visualization training to enhance student outcomes.

Teaching & Awards: Recognized for innovative pedagogy, she won the 2023 Collins Award and 2024 Everitt Award. Courses include Engineering Graphics & Design (SE 101) and Advancements in Generative Design (SE 598). She pioneered active learning spaces in the Campus Instructional Facility and developed the Renaissance Engineering summer camp for middle schoolers.

• Grants: NSF funding for generative design education research (2020–2024)
• Labs/Teams: Product Design Lab, Siebel Center for Design Affiliate