The award is named for Violet Haas, an electrical engineering professor from 1962 to 1986, who was instrumental in the early development of the Purdue chapter of the Society of Women Engineers. The fellowship is to support the science and engineering careers of junior female faculty with children.
Linnes conducts research on point-of care diagnostic challenges with immediate health applications. She develops low-cost medical devices that can be used in resource-limited settings throughout the world. These tools enable access to care even in the most remote and underprivileged settings.
In nomination materials, George R. Wodicka, Dane A. Miller Head and Professor at the Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, said that Linnes’ “pioneering work at Purdue is rapidly gaining her renown as an emerging leader in her field.” Wodicka added that Linnes “demonstrates an impressive commitment to excellence in her community engagement and teaching” through mentoring fifteen undergraduates in her research laboratory and supporting her graduate students’ leadership and outreach activities.
Linnes plans to use the associated funds in training and supporting the next generation of undergraduate researchers as they launch their careers. These funds will support a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) and Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP) undergraduate researcher, including providing professional development opportunities.
Jay Akridge, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs and diversity, presented the award along with co-host Mangala Subramaniam, director of the Susan Bulkeley Butler Center for Leadership Excellence and professor of sociology.