Cynthia Furse, professor of electrical and computer engineering, has been appointed associate vice president for research. An accomplished entrepreneur, teacher, and researcher, Furse replaces Ronald J. Pugmire, professor of chemical engineering, who will step down after 39 years in the position to focus on his energy-related research program and work on special projects for the Office of the Vice President for Research.
Furse, who teaches electromagnetics, wireless communication, microwave engineering, and antenna design—among other subjects—has a particular interest in getting women and minorities involved in the field. She volunteers in Utah’s K-12 schools as an engineering mentor, science educator, and engineering career guidance counselor, and is director of the Center of Excellence for Smart Sensors, which focuses on imbedded antennas and sensors in complex environments. Furse has directed the Utah “Smart Wiring” program since 1998. She is chief scientist for LiveWire Test Labs, Inc., a spin-off company that commercializes devices to locate intermittent faults on live wires. Furse begins in her new position July 1.
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