Research

My first three years at the Wilson College of Textiles I focused on three areas: 3D body scanning combined with knitting technology, the integration of digital printing with new pattern cutting technologies, and the implantation of aromatherapy within textiles.The last two years my research focus shifted because of my knowledge and skill in designing, programming, and running complex equipment for technical knitted textiles, garments, accessories and more recently industrial and medical devices. Most of my current funded projects focus on the incorporation of knitted fabric for the control and limitation of vector borne diseases and insect infestation. My current funding sources include: Technical Fabrics and Garments for the Armed Forces Deployed War Fighters, the USDA, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. I work with a diverse team from two other NCSU Colleges of distinguished professors, post-doctoral researchers, student research assistants, and additional funded students. I am the Primary Investigator (PI) on three of five of these joint projects. Out of this work, an effort with Har-Son, Inc. led to a university licensing contact.

My research program ties directly to my teaching and is grounded in my conceptual product development experience in industry. To date I have three published peer-reviewed journal articles, two manuscripts under review and several in process, in knitting and insect bite resistance textiles and apparel. The requirement from funding agencies to file disclosures and provisional patents leads to delays in my ability to submit manuscripts in the public forum. Therefore, publications from my funded stream will continue to publish as we move through the appropriate funding cycles.

My research program ties directly to my teaching and is grounded in my conceptual product development experience in industry.  To date I have three published peer-reviewed journal articles, two manuscripts under review and several in process, in knitting and insect bite resistance textiles and apparel. The requirement from funding agencies to file disclosures and provisional patents leads to delays in my ability to submit manuscripts in the public forum. Therefore, publications from my funded stream will continue to publish as we move through the appropriate funding cycles.

I have presented additional scholarly and creative work at 18 national and international conferences that focus on 3D body scanning, WholeGarment® knitting, sustainability, and zero waste manufacturing. I have demonstrated my ability to work independently as a researcher, as a leader with my Master’s students as well as a collaborator within the department. I have developed research and grant collaborations, disclosures and patents with other faculty in the TATM and TECS departments, the College of Agriculture and Life Science (CALS) and the College of Natural Resources (CNR). I have established relationships with other faculty in the Wilson College of Textiles, the College of Design and outside of the University.