Amy Robinson, associate teaching professor, has been appointed associate head for undergraduate education in MatSE. Robinson starts her new role July 1.
“Robinson will be an excellent associate head for our department’s undergraduate program,” said Susan Sinnott, professor and head of MatSE. “She brings a wealth of experience in educating MatSE students as well as in interfacing with materials-oriented industries in Pennsylvania. Her in-depth knowledge of materials science and engineering and of education more generally makes Robinson ideal for the position.”
Robinson will succeed R. Allen Kimel, who held the position since 2007. Kimel will serve as associate head through the end of June, and after, he will continue as an associate teaching professor and a valued member of the MatSE faculty.
“I am honored to have been selected as the next associate head for undergraduate education in MatSE,” Robinson said. “Prof. Kimel was key in many significant initiatives and critical to MatSE’s success over the last 14 years. I am appreciative of his endeavors, and the strong foundation he has set. My goal is to continue to build this program with effective leadership and meaningful contributions.”
Robinson brings a wealth of experience working with undergraduates to the position. She has taught numerous materials and metals-focused courses in the undergraduate curriculum since 2008. Robinson has helped forge new relationships with the metals industry and enjoys helping students bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace. She takes students on field trips twice a year to industry locations. Additionally, she is the faculty adviser for the Material Advantage undergraduate student organization and, the newly developed Women in Materials Science group, and chair of the Penn State ASM chapter.
“My goals for undergraduate education dovetail with the most recent MatSE Strategic Plan and will focus on sustaining and promoting the world-class education provided by MatSE at Penn State,” Robinson said. “Our department is a world leader in materials science education, and I aim to continue and enhance that reputation by establishing a new laboratory paradigm for lecture-based courses, enhancing our curriculum in data science and computational materials science, developing our students into independent professionals through improved communication skills and ethics, and continuing our efforts to develop a diverse community and a culture of acceptance and support for all students in our department.”
Prior to her focus on academic teaching and administrative roles, Robinson’s research interests included microstructure development in titanium and steel alloys, deformation and mechanical behavior of metals, and processing, structure, and property relationships in metals. She continues to support industry in these areas.
Robinson holds bachelor of science, master of science, and doctor of philosophy degrees in material science and engineering, all from Penn State.