معرفی
Sophia Santillan is an Associate Professor of the Practice in the Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science at Duke University, with a secondary appointment in the Mathematics Department at Trinity College of Arts & Sciences. She holds a Ph.D. from Duke University (2007) and has been active since 2021. Her research focuses on structural mechanics, nonlinear dynamics, and engineering/STEM education.
Her teaching spans courses in dynamics, mechanical engineering analysis, design, and mathematics, including EGR 244L, MATH 353, and ME 321L. She co-leads the Duke Girls Exploring Math (DukeGEM) initiative, aimed at supporting women in STEM. Notable grants include the NASA-funded fellowship (2003–2007) and the Mathematical Association of America’s DukeGEM grant (2021–2023).
Key publications highlight innovations in engineering education (e.g., Curling mechanics demonstrations, 360 coaching for advising) and structural analysis (e.g., postbuckled beams, riser behavior). Media coverage includes discussions on STEM gender equity and diversity initiatives like the “Engineering While Black” series.
