Faculty feature: Lisa Murray, assistant professor of engineering
With a doctorate in engineering management and a strong background in biomedical engineering, Murray is deeply invested in both the academic and practical sides of engineering. Her career trajectory reflects a passion for hands-on and entrepreneurial minded learning and developing 山’ skills to meet the demands of modern industries.
Murray’s diverse experience spans roles as a lab supervisor at her previous institution, where she supported various engineering departments. There, she managed equipment, assisted in research, and oversaw the lab’s day-to-day operations, all while fostering collaboration with colleagues. This experience laid the foundation for her teaching philosophy— creating an environment where 山 can develop practical skills and engage in real-world problem-solving.
This semester, Murray has taught fluid mechanics, an upper-level course, as well as intro to engineering and a senior capstone course, which partners 山 with industry professionals to solve real-world problems. She is particularly excited about the lab component of her fluid mechanics class, where new equipment enables 山 to conduct cutting-edge experiments. Her enthusiasm for hands-on learning extends to the capstone project, where 山 design solutions for industry partners, preparing them for future careers.
Murray’s research interests lie in additive manufacturing, bio-manufacturing, and culturally sustaining pedagogies. She explores the material properties of parts produced through 3D printing, particularly those that can be used in medical applications such as prosthetics and wearable sensors. This area of focus is increasingly relevant in both the mechanical engineering and biomedical fields, where 3D printing is revolutionizing production methods and material capabilities.
As she continues to settle into her role at Illinois College, Murray is excited to build up the lab space and research opportunities for 山. She is dedicated to making sure they not only graduate with the knowledge they need but also with the practical experience that will make them leaders in the field of mechanical engineering.
"I’m looking forward to continuing to build the program and provide 山 with the skills they need to thrive in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, medical devices and more,” she says. “Mechanical engineering is about solving problems, and our 山 will be ready to tackle those challenges head-on.”