A 3D printer printing micro-scale functional devices using conductive ink. — A 3D printer prints micro-scale functional devices using conductive ink.

OSU's Ramesh to explore 3D printing innovations with NASA scientists

Friday, March 7, 2025

Media Contact: Desa James | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-2669 | desa.james@okstate.edu

Dr. Sri Ramesh, assistant professor for The School of Industrial Engineering and Management in the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at Oklahoma State University, has been awarded a NASA Established Program to Simulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) travel grant. The grant provides funding for faculty to spend up to three days and two nights with NASA scientists to explore research collaboration and forge direct partnerships at NASA Centers and Mission Directorates.

Two hands in blue gloves hold a micro-scaled 3D print on a microscope slide.

Ramesh’s research focuses on advancing the science and technology behind additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, specifically for creating micro-scale functional devices.

Inspired by the unique challenges that designing and producing functional micro-scale devices presents, Ramesh’s research is set to open new possibilities for advancements with the devices.

“These devices are not just prototypes; they are fully functional components that can sense, communicate and perform tasks,” Ramesh said.

By improving the understanding of how to fabricate these devices, the research aims to enable innovation in fields like space exploration, health care and computing, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with 3D printing.

Ramesh will be visiting NASA Goddard located in Maryland. The main goal of his trip is to meet with researchers and interact with the ongoing projects and breakthroughs at Goddard.

Ramesh highlighted the educational benefits of this project.

“This project will provide an excellent opportunity to directly observe the challenges and solutions NASA is working on in additive manufacturing for electronics,” Ramesh said. “By seeing these real-world problems firsthand, I’ll be able to bring relevant examples back to the classroom, helping students align their research to address similar challenges. Additionally, I’ll be able to share insights on potential internship opportunities at NASA, guiding students on how they can get involved and contribute to cutting-edge work in the field.”

Dr. Ramesh's research focuses on advancing the science and technology behind additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, specifically for creating micro-scale functional devices

Beyond its applications in space research, the technology developed through this research has the potential to revolutionize several other application areas. For example, in health care, it could enable more efficient diagnostics, such as detecting infections or providing point-of-care diagnostics.

“This research will position OSU as a key player in advancing cutting-edge technology that supports NASA’s space exploration initiatives,” Ramesh said. “By contributing to the next generations of 3D printing technologies, OSU will help drive innovation that supports space missions.”

You can find more about Ramesh’s research here.