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College of Design and
Engineering Studies

Research

Research in the College of Design and Engineering Studies brings together ways of thinking, making, and problem-solving across design, engineering, the arts, and the sciences. Faculty and students collaborate to explore how built environments, digital tools, materials, and artistic practices shape communities and industries.

Robotic arm of welding machine

Doing Metal 3D Printing Better

The Chang-Davidson lab, located in Room 50 in the basement of Exley, studies metal additive manufacturing processes using a large-scale directed energy deposition (DED) machine, similar to a robotic welder. Students in this lab use both experimental methods and simulation tools to get a better understanding of how to consistently and predictably print high-quality parts. The insights they gain will improve the options for manufacturing a wide range of metal parts.
Meet Prof. Elizabeth Chang-Davidson

Integrated Microsystems for the Future

Research led by Professor Ved Gund explores the use of microscale electromechanical materials and systems to build actuators and transducers for low-power computation, harsh environment operation, and physical sensors. His research investigates sustainable design at the intersection of science and engineering.

Meet Prof. Ved Gund

Biomaterials and Regenerative Design

Research led by Professor Yu Nong Khew explores how living materials like mycelium can transform design practice, from biodegradable structures to zero-waste product exploration, and teaches students to rethink material lifecycles and ecological impact.
Meet Prof. Yu Nong Khew
Read More in Wesleyan Magazine

Computational Knitting and Textile Systems

CoDES faculty research explores computational knitting as a platform for experimentation in textiles, soft robotics, and responsive materials. Using a state-of-the-art knitting machine in the Textiles Hub, this work investigates how code, structure, and material behavior can generate new forms of sustainable and functional design. 

Meet Prof. Sonia Roberts

Educational Game Design and Learning Systems

CoDES and Education Studies faculty investigate how game mechanics and design principles can enhance learning, from language acquisition to system thinking and engagement. In the Educational Gaming Lab, students study game theory and create prototype games that illuminate how playfulness can foster deeper understanding across disciplines.
Meet Prof. Camilla Zamboni

North Studio

This Spring, we're working with Facilities, a consulting engineer from GNCB, the Student Farm Collective, College of the Environment, the Green Fund, and the College of Integrative Sciences to design and build a "barn" for Long Lane Farm.
Meet Prof. Elijah Huge
Learn More about North Studio