Center Directors
Stephen Gent
605-688-5337
Stephen Gent is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Director of the North Central Regional Sun Grant Center. Dr. Gent has been involved in a variety of industry-driven projects, including grain dryer design and optimization; biofuel and biobased products from agricultural residues, algae, and non-food oilseeds; and implantable medical devices to treat cardiovascular diseases, to name a few. He has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and has managed projects sponsored by the National Science Foundation, the US Department of Agriculture, the US Department of Transportation, and industry.
Teresa Hall
605-688-6417
Teresa Hall is Professor and Head of the Construction & Operations Management Department at SDSU. Dr. Hall specializes in academic program development, project management, leadership in technical organizations, workforce development in manufacturing and construction sectors, and collaboration for workforce development. Her recent projects include the launch of a completely-online professional Masters program (Masters of Engineering), two-year degree programs in Construction Technology & Manufacturing Technology, and the Imagine 2023 SDSU Strategic Planning Task Force.
Yue Zhou
605-688-4393
Yue Zhou is an Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering. Dr. Zhou’s research group mainly focuses on advanced materials manufacturing and its application in various fields including nanoelectronics, sensors, energy storage and energy conversion. More than 30 peer-reviewed papers have been published in those fields. He has received grant supports from various federal agencies such as National Science Foundation, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, etc. He has also maintained long-term collaborative relationship with industries inside and outside SD.
Jennifer Quail
605-697-8103
Jennifer Quail is the Director of Entrepreneur Support at Brookings Economic Development Corporation. In this role, Jennifer provides individualized support through coaching, consultation, customized programming and connections to other resource partners within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through her certification as an entrepreneur coach, Jennifer leads an ideation and commercialization program specific to SDSU research. Jennifer also partners with the University to support various economic development initiatives such as the University Center.