Susan Sajadi

Susan Sajadi is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering Education at Virginia Tech (College of Engineering). Her research focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion in engineering, engineering culture, adaptability, and scenario-based learning. She holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Education Systems and Design from Arizona State University (2022), alongside a B.S.E. and M.S. in Biomedical Engineering (2016, 2017). Prior to academia, she worked in biomedical engineering and corporate social responsibility. Her work employs mixed-methods approaches to address systemic barriers in engineering education and the workforce.

Education:

• B.S.E. in Biomedical Engineering, Arizona State University, 2016
• M.S. in Biomedical Engineering, Arizona State University, 2017
• Ph.D. in Engineering Education Systems and Design, Arizona State University, 2022

Research Interests: Dr. Sajadi’s work addresses broadening participation in engineering, fostering adaptability, and improving workplace dynamics. She explores how identity, instructional modalities, and technology (e.g., generative AI) can enhance educational outcomes and industry preparedness. Her recent projects include analyzing the impact of the pandemic on student readiness and developing intervention strategies for peer feedback in project-based learning.

Publications Trends: Her articles span workplace culture, pandemic-driven educational challenges, gender equity, and AI applications in feedback systems. A recurring theme is leveraging interdisciplinary methods to address systemic inequities and prepare engineers for evolving professional landscapes.

Awards & Honors:

• Mara H. Wasburn Early Engineering Educator Award (2023)
• Nominated for University Award for Excellence in Graduate Academic Advising (2024)
• ASU Graduate College Dissertation Completion Fellowship (2022)
• Arizona Graduate Scholar Award (2016, 2017)

Advising & Grants: Leads the NSF-funded CAREER award project on adaptability in engineering pathways. Courses taught include graduate-level studies on multicultural environments and engineering education policy. Her work emphasizes translating research into actionable practices for institutions and industries.