Graduate Student Spotlight
August 2026 Spotlight
Nafiseh Aftah
Ph.D. student, mechanical engineering
Aftah’s research focuses on lumbar spine biomechanics and sensor-based assessment of human movement. Her current projects use motion estimation techniques on IMU and force sensor data to quantify how lumbar mobilization techniques affect loading and movement in the lower back. She works closely with physical therapists to translate these measurements into novel devices and computational models that support injury prevention and rehabilitation for people with low back pain. She is broadly interested in cyber-physical systems, edge AI for human motion analysis and in developing sensor-driven models that make musculoskeletal care more objective and accessible, reflecting broader trends in biomechanics and human motion analysis research.
In her free time, she enjoys traveling, taking long walks and listening to music to recharge and reflect. Many afternoons she spends cooking with her husband. She says she is a bit of a foodie and loves to try new recipes.
What made you choose KU's School of Engineering?
“Moving to a new place to start graduate school involves a lot of uncertainty, but KU’s School of Engineering quickly became a place where I could find my voice as an academic and feel supported in that transition. The close collaboration with KU Medical Center has allowed me to partner with different clinical and research groups, observe a wide range of research strategies and see how engineering ideas translate into real-world impact. I was also drawn to the faculty culture in the School of Engineering, where people work across disciplines and create a supportive environment that encourages students to experiment, make mistakes and learn through trial and error, something I value deeply in my development as a researcher.”
What is something that makes KU's School of Engineering different?
“There is a strong, student‑centered culture here: you can genuinely find the research area and questions you want to pursue and have faculty and staff invest in that path with you. Graduate students are encouraged to shape their own research directions, and it’s common to have professors actively by your side, helping refine ideas, connecting you with collaborators and supporting both your academic progress and long‑term career goals.”
What opportunities, beyond classes and research, have you participated in through KU’s School of Engineering?
“Outside of classes and research, I’ve developed a growing interest in educational engineering and mentoring, especially around how we support student learning in the age of AI. My exposure to various mentoring and support programs at KU, such as Engineering summer camp, KUEST Bridge Program and REU/RET programs, has shown me that I really enjoy helping students stay engaged, reflect on their progress and take ownership of their learning. I’m increasingly interested in designing learning environments and assessment practices that make students more accountable while still giving them space to experiment and grow.”