By Kamryn Wesson
Special from UTPB
University of Texas Permian Basin Electrical Engineering Department Coordinator and Assistant Professor, Dr. Omar Beg has been at the university for 4 years. During his time here he has proved to be an outstanding contributor to research in the Permian Basin. His research is based on microgrids which are small-scale power systems.
“With recent advancements, microgrids have evolved into cyber-physical systems due to complex software-based controllers, internet of things (IoT), and communication networks making them vulnerable to cyber intrusions,” Beg said.
He said his aim is to promote research and education on smart grids and resilient power systems.
“My multidisciplinary research aims to apply the techniques from formal methods and artificial intelligence to make microgrids more resilient against cyber-attacks and physical faults.”
In recent years, his research efforts have paid off. Beg received the College of Engineering Outstanding Faculty Award in research and the President’s Research Award in 2022. He has also been awarded the Arlen and Betty Edgar endowed fellowship to support his research.
Beg shared his research efforts have not been done alone. He has worked with several students over the years and taught them how to take research and apply it to their careers.
“I have led and advised research projects for the Semester Undergraduate Research in Engineering (SURE) program and supervised undergraduate students since Fall 2019.”
Beg explained he would strongly encourage all students to get involved in research at UTPB.
“Course-based research is an evidence-based practice that greatly contributes toward student success, timely graduation, and career growth. Students learn about the latest research trends in their field, apply those practices in problem solving, and present their results to a broad audience. These skills will help them excel in their careers.”
In addition to his research, Dr. Beg also teaches electrical engineering courses allowing him to get to know his students and their needs even better. He said the small class sizes and tight knit falcon community is another reason he would encourage students to come to UTPB.
“I would encourage students to come to UTPB because it’s affordable, there are numerous research opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and a great student-to-faculty ratio.”
To learn more about how students can become involved in undergraduate research, visit the website.
