Ankit Saxena

Ankit Saxena serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wyoming since 2024, focusing on innovative applications of additive manufacturing in structural engineering and materials science. His work bridges theoretical design with practical implementations in energy, aerospace, and robotics systems.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Penn State University (2024)
• M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Penn State University (2020)
• B.S. in Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, Delhi Technological University (2016)

Dr. Saxena's research centers on developing adaptive stiffness structures, meta-materials, and functionally graded systems through advanced additive manufacturing techniques. His work specifically targets energy applications (nuclear, wind, hydrogen, oil/gas) and aerospace challenges, with emphasis on structural health monitoring and vibration damping. The SUMMIT Lab under his direction creates multi-functional materials enabling shape morphing and self-strengthening properties for next-generation engineering solutions.

His publication record (2020-2024) reveals a consistent trajectory toward multi-physics meta-material design, with dominant themes in TPMS lattice optimization, fluid-structure interaction systems, and medical robotics applications. Key methodological contributions include novel fluid accumulator integration, laser powder bed fusion parameterization, and non-pneumatic tire architectures.

Scientific Recognition:

• ASME Graduate Teaching Fellow (2022-2024)
• Harold F. Martin Graduate Assistant Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award (Penn State, 2023)

Dr. Saxena teaches core materials courses (ME 3450: Properties of Materials; ME 4150: Mechanical Behavior of Materials) while expanding his research group through active recruitment of PhD candidates for 2026. His teaching philosophy emphasizes practical applications of theoretical concepts, recognized through multiple Penn State teaching fellowships.

The SUMMIT Lab operates at the intersection of Wyoming's energy priorities and cutting-edge manufacturing research, maintaining strategic focus on renewable energy infrastructure and aerospace applications through metal additive manufacturing innovations.