ISU Research, Innovation, and Creativity Insights
Final Monday
Welcome to ISU Research, Innovation and Creativity Insights, where we explore the transformative power of Idaho State University’s research and creative activities. We talk about cutting-edge research and innovation shaping the future of Idaho, the region and beyond. Join us as we engage with ISU’s leading scholars and inspiring students who are pushing the boundaries of knowledge and discovery. From breakthrough discoveries in science and technology to advancements in the arts and humanities, ISU Research, Innovation and Creativity Insights showcases the array of talent and expertise thriving at ISU. And, we always end with the question, “So What?” Our guests help us understand how their work makes a positive and lasting impact in our community and society.
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This month’s guests describe the threats to the sometimes invisible systems that make our lives comfortable. The electrical grid, transportation systems, water and sewage treatment systems, gas pipelines, and most factory manufacturing systems are run by complex computer controllers. Have you ever considered what happens if someone “hacks” the system? What would happen if our electrical grid or rail lines were suddenly disrupted or shut down for a few days? ISU is home to one of the nation’s first and oldest training centers to protect the U.S. industrial cyber infrastructure. Join us as we learn about current threats and how ISU students are ready to protect against them. -
ISU’s Dr. Mary Lou Dunzik-Gouger and current undergraduate nuclear engineering/ mechanical engineering student Angela Trejo talk about ISU research that is molding the U.S. energy future. They tell us how students work side-by-side with ISU faculty to better understand how ISU’s research nuclear reactor is answering questions to guide the design of the next generation of advanced reactors. -
Join Idaho State University's Interim Dean of the College of Business, Alex Bolinger, MBA graduate Rehnaz Karanjia, and current MBA student Alicia Pino as we discuss their research on effective communication with remote employees. Their work delves into what strategies are most effective when managing remote teams, as well as common pitfalls to avoid. The conversation will highlight key findings from their research on leadership and project management in remote work environments. -
ISU’s 2025 Distinguished Researcher, Dr. Mustafa Mashal, ISU Structural Lab manager Jared Cantrell, and undergraduate student Prajita Budhathoki talk about engineering research that saves lives and builds a safer future for all of us. They describe recent projects that involve ISU students and partnerships that support innovations in bridge building, agriculture, and energy systems. -
ISU Professor and Associate Dean for Social and Behavioral Sciences, Zackery Heern, talks about the Middle East, religious persecution, and the hope that comes from understanding our common humanity. Heern’s research explores political and religious influences on the region and how these influences explain how people co-exist, or don’t, in this volatile region of the world. His 2015 book, “The Emergence of Modern Shi’ism: Islamic Reform in Iraq and Iran” reviews the foundations of modern Islam, and provides insight into the region's religious and political developments both past and present. -
The new director of the ISU Office for Research Development and the Associate Vice President for Research at ISU talk about expanding research opportunities for ISU faculty and students. They describe the value of research in higher education and how it benefits individuals and the communities where we live. They provide examples of how research results and creative scholarship improve our health, our ability to move around our communities, and our interactions with others. University-based research makes a positive difference in almost all aspects of our lives! -
ISU Biological Sciences assistant professor Dr. Heather Ray and Nelly Cyuzuza, an ISU graduate student, describe what they are learning about genetics and developmental disorders. They tell us how they got “hooked” on their interest in developmental biology. -
ISU assistant professor Kirsten Green Mink and biological anthropology graduate student Miles Rhoads discuss new uses of technology to address the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) endemic. We also talk about ancient Mayans and ways in which students can focus their experience and interest into interesting career paths. -
Dr. Donna Lybecker shares her thoughts about how words and narratives around political issues shape our long-term understanding. She describes how ISU students engage in research and academic activities that help them become more active and informed citizens in U.S. democracy. This prepares them for a variety of careers, and for life. -
ISU’s Laurie Holien discusses homeland security and emergency services training that protects U.S. national security interests nationwide. She describes how students in ISU’s online program learn from national experts and faculty from across the country. Graduates of ISU’s programs have leadership roles in FEMA, state and local governments.
