Ratan Kumar

Dr. Ratan Kumar is a Professor of Practice in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department at The University of Texas at Arlington since 2011, with prior academic roles at the University of North Texas. His expertise lies in thermal engineering, nuclear engineering, and innovative online education methods.

His educational background includes a PhD and an ME in Nuclear/Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida (1992, 1989) and a BME in Mechanical Engineering from Jadavpur University (1984).

Dr. Kumar's research centers on Online Engineering Education, Phase Change Heat Transfer, and Computational Fluid Mechanics. He has pioneered web-based interactive tools for thermal-hydraulics education and conducted critical heat flux analysis for nuclear safety applications.

His publication record from 2010 to 2017 reveals a consistent focus on heat transfer in nuclear systems, including transient thermal analysis of fuel rods and boiling phenomena with nanofluids, alongside educational technology developments.

Notable awards include:

• Best Paper Award from ASME (2009)
• Finalist for Best Web-Based Educational Software from IASTED (2007)
• Engineer of the Year from ASME-NTS EPPD Section (2004)
• Best Student Paper Award from American Nuclear Society (1990)
• Member of Alpha Nu Sigma, Tau Beta Pi, and Tau Alpha Pi (1990)

Dr. Kumar has led and co-led multiple federally and state-funded grants, totaling over $1.3 million, from agencies including the NRC, DoE, and TEES. These projects support research in nuclear thermal-hydraulics, radiation measurement applications, and STEM education initiatives. While specific student advisees are not listed, his extensive teaching record in mechanical and nuclear engineering courses indicates active mentorship.

He is actively engaged in professional service, serving on committees for the American Nuclear Society and ASME, contributing to the advancement of thermal-hydraulics and engineering education standards.