Dr. Lessa Grunenfelder

Associate Professor

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Biography

Lessa Grunenfelder has a Bachelor's degree in Astronautical Engineering, a Master's degree in Materials Science, and a Doctoral degree from the University of Southern California (USC). She joined the Mork Family Department as a teaching faculty member in 2015. Grunenfelder teaches undergraduate and graduate courses focusing on material properties, processing, selection, and design, demonstrating a passion for sharing her enthusiasm for materials science with students. Her curriculum blends fundamental science and engineering applications. Her research interests include efficient manufacturing of high-performance composites and active learning techniques in engineering education. Grunenfelder is an active member of the Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering (SAMPE) and is engaged in research collaborations with the M.C. Gill Composites Center at USC, as well as focusing on out-of-autoclave manufacturing of carbon fiber composites and defect control in processing efficiency.

Research Interests

Awards

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Best Thesis Award in Materials Science

2013-01-01
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2nd place, Student Research Symposium (oral presentation)

2012-01-01
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1st place, Processing category, Technical Conference student poster competition

2012-01-01
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International Student Scholarship

2011-01-01
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1st place, American Society of Metals International, Los Angeles Chapter, Student Night oral presentation competition

2011-01-01
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1st place, Graduate/Senior Student Award (oral presentation)

2011-01-01
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1st place, Outstanding Paper Award

2011-01-01
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ARCS Scholar

2010-01-01
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Paper Award

2010-01-01

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.