Sushma Kotru

Dr. Sushma Kotru serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at The University of Alabama's College of Engineering, with her office located in room 2034 NERC. Her research spans interdisciplinary domains including additive manufacturing, advanced materials, and biomedical engineering, addressing critical technological challenges.

Her primary research interests encompass:

• Additive Manufacturing
• Advanced Materials
• Biomedical Devices
• Energy Harvesting
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Laser Processing
• Materials Characterization/Microscopy
• Nanotechnology
• Photovoltaics
• Sensors
• Smart Materials
• Wearable Technologies

Analysis of her recent publications (2019-2024) reveals sustained expertise in thin film materials, particularly ferrites and ferroelectric compounds (PLZT/PZT), for sensor development and energy applications. Her work demonstrates significant contributions to optical characterization of doped ferrite films, flexible tactile sensors using electrospun nanofibers, and optimization of power inductors, bridging materials science with practical electronic systems.

No major scientific awards are documented in available sources.

Dr. Kotru actively mentors undergraduate researchers through the NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, focusing on National Academy of Engineering Grand Challenges. This initiative provides hands-on research training in advanced materials and biomedical engineering, fostering innovation in next-generation engineers.

She collaborates extensively with university research centers including the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Materials Design Integration and the Center for Sustainable Infrastructure, contributing to Alabama's materials science and engineering ecosystem through cross-disciplinary projects in sustainable infrastructure and advanced manufacturing.