Samaneh Gholitabar Receives NASA and NYC Health Dept Awards

Samaneh Gholitabar (Construction Management and Civil Engineering Technology) has received a NASA Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) MPLAN25 Award, a $50,000 grant for “Microgravity Simulation for Lunar In-Situ Build.” The project uses advanced simulations to study how lunar soil can support construction in reduced gravity and extreme conditions. Additionally, Professor Gholitabar was selected for the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s Pilot Pitchfest Research Track, a competitive program that pairs academic researchers with city agencies to address real-world challenges. Her work will focus on developing a health impact assessment for major events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Read more here.