Sean R. Agnew

Sean R. Agnew is the William G. Reynolds Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Virginia, with a courtesy appointment in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. His research focuses on metals analysis, including magnesium alloy formability, intermetallic behaviors, and aluminum alloy fatigue, employing advanced techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, and neutron diffraction. He earned a Ph.D. from Northwestern University (1998) and a B.S. from Cornell University (1994).

Research interests span surface/interface science, metallurgy, nanomaterials, and advanced transportation materials. His team addresses challenges in corrosion resistance, microstructural control, and high-temperature alloy performance. Notably, his work on coating removal techniques for bridge infrastructure has received ARPA-E funding to develop heat-resistant turbine engine coatings.

Publications emphasize magnesium alloy deformation mechanisms, neutron diffraction analysis, and multiphase alloy design. Collaborations integrate computational modeling and in-situ experimentation to advance material understanding. The Agnew Research Group actively explores applications in aerospace, energy systems, and structural materials.