Cultivating Indigenous Voices: The Níhí Lab
Níhí Lab Research Group Photo
Níhí Lab and KXCI 91.3
In this podcast episode, KXCI steps inside a one-of-a-kind research lab at the University of Arizona’s Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, where cutting-edge process engineering meets deep respect for Indigenous knowledge systems. The Níhí Lab is lead by Dr. Cherie De Vore, PhD, who is the first Native American professor in the history of the University of Arizona’s School of Engineering. Cherie is passionate about mentoring the next generation of community leaders, offering a holistic approach that integrates multiple knowledge systems and praxis.
The Diné word “Níhí” translates to a plural, collective “ours.” It reflects the spirit and foundation of their research community: to operate as an inclusive collective that brings together students, researchers, non-academic partners, and community members in shared purpose and responsibility.