Michael Bartlett, an associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has been named a Rising Star of Mechanical Engineering by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

Bartlett and other Rising Stars were honored at a showcase at the International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, ASME's annual conference.  The recognition honored early-career researchers who have received recognition through prestigious, federally administered awards. Of the awards which designate ASME's Rising Star, Bartlett received a DARPA Young Faculty Award in 2018, an ONR Young Investigator Award in 2021, and an NSF CAREER Award in 2023.

Bartlett has been a part of the Virginia Tech Department of Mechanical Engineering since 2020, bringing with him a strong background in soft robotics and materials. He has produced a rich body of research work, including innovations in flexible circuits, bio-inspired underwater devices, and innovations in adhesives.