Mark Anderson

Dr. Mark Anderson is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, serving as Associate Chair and Director of the Thermal Hydraulic Laboratory. He also holds an affiliate appointment in Nuclear Engineering and Engineering Physics and manages the UW–Madison Tantalus facility. His research focuses on thermal-hydraulic performance and advanced energy systems, including supercritical fluids and nuclear reactors.

• PhD, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1998
• MS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1996
• BS, Engineering, University of Wisconsin-River Falls, 1993

His research interests span energy systems, nuclear energy, solar energy, and energy storage and transport. He investigates thermal-hydraulic performance in advanced systems, including supercritical fluids such as CO₂ and water, liquid metals, and molten salts. His work addresses material-related challenges in these systems and their applications in nuclear reactors, solar thermal systems, and fossil power generation.

Dr. Anderson has received notable awards, including the 2005 American Nuclear Society Young Investigator Award and participation in the National Academy of Engineering’s Frontiers of Engineering. His research is supported by over 200 publications and five patents.

He oversees the Thermal Hydraulic Laboratory and Tantalus facility, advancing heat transfer and energy systems. Collaborations include Idaho National Laboratory and the IAEA on supercritical fluids and nuclear energy projects.