South Dakota State University (SDSU), the pride of the Mount Rushmore State, stands at the forefront of educational and technological innovation. Nestled in Brookings, a city recognized for its safety and community spirit, SDSU is not only the largest higher-education institution in South Dakota but also a beacon of academic and research excellence. Founded in 1881 as a land-grant university, SDSU has grown into a robust academic community with a fall 2024 enrollment of 12,065 students hailing from 47 states and 77 countries, reflecting a diverse and inclusive culture.
The focus today is on an exemplary member of the SDSU faculty, Dr. Saikat Basu, an assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering. Dr. Basu’s work epitomizes the innovative spirit of South Dakota’s premier university. His research in respiratory fluid dynamics has attracted national attention, particularly through the development of a digital evaluation tool named Airway Instantaneous Regional Guided Interface for Drug Delivery Efficiency (AIR-GUIDDE).
South Dakota State University
The groundbreaking AIR-GUIDDE project is a collaborative venture between SDSU and QHS Lab Inc., a leader in digital health care solutions based in West Palm Beach, Florida. This partnership underscores SDSU’s commitment to translational research that has tangible societal benefits. The tool promises to revolutionize drug delivery by allowing manufacturers to efficiently assess the therapeutic efficacy of their products, such as inhalers, targeting specific intra-airway regions. This collaboration exemplifies South Dakota’s capability to contribute to global health solutions.
Dr. Basu’s work has gained recognition from the National Science Foundation (NSF), which invited him to submit a proposal for the Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer programs. Such invitations are rare and are a testament to the potential commercial impact, societal benefit, and technical innovation of the AIR-GUIDDE project. “This invitation from the NSF is a validation of the groundbreaking nature of the AIR-GUIDDE project,” Dr. Basu stated. “It reflects not only the advanced scientific principles behind the platform but also its potential to redefine drug delivery in ways that can significantly improve patient outcomes and lower health care costs.”
The Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering at SDSU, of which Dr. Basu is a part, is renowned for its academic excellence and offers a range of STEM programs that equip students with real-world skills. The college’s Pathway to Premier initiative aims to achieve top-tier status among engineering colleges by 2030. Under the leadership of Dean Sanjeev Kumar, the college has launched new programs and established strategic collaborations, such as the recent partnership with QHS Lab Inc.
SDSU’s broader academic environment is thriving. The university offers 88 majors, 37 specializations, 106 minors, and extensive graduate programs, including 38 master’s and 16 Ph.D. programs. This comprehensive educational offering is supported by a robust budget; for FY2025, SDSU boasts an operating budget authority of $350,926,509, with substantial contributions from state funds and student tuition.
Brookings, the home of SDSU, is not just a college town but a community that provides a safe, engaging environment conducive to learning and innovation. Rated as the 33rd safest college town in the nation, Brookings exemplifies Midwestern hospitality and offers a supportive backdrop for academic pursuits.
South Dakota State University is not only shaping the future of higher education but also contributing to cutting-edge research with global implications. The AIR-GUIDDE project is just one example of how SDSU is making a difference. By fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and pursuing innovation, SDSU continues to enhance its reputation as a leader in research and education.
In conclusion, the contributions of Dr. Saikat Basu and the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering are a testament to South Dakota State University’s role as a catalyst for change and progress in the world of engineering and beyond. As South Dakota continues to build upon its educational and technological achievements, the future looks promising for this dynamic institution.