About

Israa joined the School of Engineering Technology at Purdue University as a Ph.D. student in Fall 2022. She is currently funded as a Research Assistant by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to contribute to the project titled "Research Initiation: Developing Spatial Visualization and Understanding of Complex Systems via Interactive Mixed Reality Modules." Besides her RA appointment, Israa collaborates with industry partners on cutting-edge research projects in digital hydraulics and extended reality. She designs, simulates, and controls hydraulic and mechanical systems by seamlessly integrating control system analysis and design into Extended Reality development. Her contributions extend to the development and implementation of interactive Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) modules and platforms, which have proven highly effective in educational and training contexts. Before her Ph.D. appointment at Purdue, Israa served as a visiting scholar at the School of Engineering Technology at the university, where she conducted research on the design, modeling, simulation, and control of complex fluid power and mechanical systems.

Israa received her B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering from Beirut Arab University (BAU) Lebanon in 2019. In 2021, she received her M.E. degree in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in "Robust Control" from the American University of Beirut (AUB) Lebanon, where her research pursuits were centered on dynamic system control theory. She designed and validated robust algorithmic controllers, addressing the critical challenge of optimizing energy performance.

Looking ahead, her professional aspirations involve applying for an Assistant Professor position upon completing her Ph.D. This career trajectory aligns with her desire to leverage her accumulated experience and knowledge to mentor and guide emerging talents. A central component of her vision is inspiring and supporting aspiring scholars in pursuing academic and professional excellence, facilitating impactful change within our field.