The School of Civil and Environmental Engineering is proud to celebrate Dr. Arash Zaghi's remarkable achievement as a recipient of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). This prestigious honor, bestowed by outgoing President Joe Biden, is the highest recognition the federal government awards to early-career researchers and reflects Dr. Zaghi’s exceptional contributions to science and engineering.

Dr. Zaghi’s groundbreaking research centers on promoting a strengths-based approach to neurodiverse learning, emphasizing the unique talents and abilities of neurodiverse students. Supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), his work has not only garnered recognition through this award but has also helped shift the narrative around neurodivergent education from a deficit model to one of empowerment and possibility.

“We were extremely fortunate that the NSF invested in us,” Dr. Zaghi shared. “What began as a bold idea has now substantially contributed to changing perspectives on neurodiversity in STEM education.”

Dr. Zaghi’s previous accolades include the NSF CAREER Award and NSF Mid-Career Advancement Award, reflecting his commitment to advancing innovation in education through initiatives such as utilizing artificial intelligence to enhance STEM participation among neurodivergent students.

This award celebrates not only Dr. Zaghi’s research accomplishments but also the potential for his work to influence and inspire future generations. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Zaghi for this outstanding honor and for continuing to represent UConn and SoCEE as a leader in innovation and excellence.

Read the article in UConn Today here.