Dustin Gilmer

Dustin Gilmer is an Assistant Professor at the University of Tennessee's Department of Materials Science and Engineering and the University of Tennessee Space Institute. He holds a PhD in Energy Science and Engineering (2022) from the University of Tennessee Bredesen Center and a B.S. in Physics from East Tennessee State University. His research focuses on Extreme Environmental Materials Processing (EEMP), particularly advanced materials for high-temperature applications such as ceramic matrix composites and carbon-carbon composites. He collaborates extensively with Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Manufacturing Demonstration Facility (MDF), leveraging advanced manufacturing techniques like additive manufacturing, powder metallurgy, and in-situ process monitoring.

Key research areas include additive manufacturing binders, ceramic processing, and materials for extreme environments. Gilmer leads the Molecules to Manufacturing Lab, which integrates chemistry and materials science to innovate manufacturing paradigms. His work emphasizes workforce development through programs like the METAL initiative, supported by the Department of Defense's IBAS program. He has received the 2019 R&D 100 Award for a high-strength binder system in additive manufacturing.

His lab facilities span UT’s Fibers and Composites Manufacturing Facility (FCMF), Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Spallation Neutron Source (SNS), and the Manufacturing Demonstration Facility (MDF). Ongoing projects include predictive binder jet manufacturing, hybrid manufacturing integration, and in-situ crosslinking technologies. His research bridges academia and industry, addressing challenges in energy, aerospace, and industrial sectors.