Viterbi assistant professor named one of top innovators under the age of 35

A USC Viterbi School of Engineering assistant professor has been recognized as one of the top innovators under the age of 35, according to Technology Review.

Michelle Povinelli has been working on better understanding how light moves through complex materials. Her findings will advance research in creating more efficient electronic devices.

Povinelli was selected from more than 300 nominees for the list, according to USC news.

“She continues to impress with her prodigious, high-quality research in optics and photonics. Her selection [by Technology Review] is almost a natural consequence of her talent and accomplishments. We cannot be more proud,” Viterbi Dean Yannis C. Yortsos told USC news.

Povinelli also holds the Women in Science and Engineering Junior Gabilan Chair at Viterbi.

“Professor Povinelli is a shining example of a USC innovator,” said Krisztina Holly, USC vice provost for innovation and executive director of the USC Stevens Institute for Innovation, to USC news. “In her research pursuits, she has continued to push beyond the edges of her field, questioned assumptions and used her imagination to make leaps that will surely make an impact in years to come.”