Find Academic Supervisors

Nikhil KaranjgaokarView profile

Associate Professor

• Experimental Mechanics
• Nanostructured Materials
• Granular Media Dynamics
• +3 more

Nikhil Karanjgaokar is an Associate Professor of Aerospace Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), where he has been since August 2015. His research focuses on experimental and computational mechanics of novel materials and structures, particularly in granular media dynamics, nanostructured materials, and optical measurement techniques. He leads the Structures and Materials Laboratory (HL 028) , equipped with advanced tools such as Digital Image Correlation (DIC), high-speed imaging systems, and laser Doppler vibrometers. Education: B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, India (2006) M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University (2007) Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2013) Research Interests: Micro/nano-scale experimental mechanics Temperature and strain rate effects on nanostructured materials Dynamic response of granular media and inhomogeneous materials Optical measurement techniques for material characterization His lab investigates granular systems under impact, adaptive metamaterials, and thin-film mechanics. Notable projects include developing bulletproof vests with self-optimizing materials and exploring interfacial adhesion in polymer-based composites. His work has been featured in media such as WBUR and the Worcester Business Journal .

• Material Science
• Mechanics of Materials
• Finite Element Analysis
• +6 more

Martina Scapin is an Associate Professor at the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (DIMEAS) , Politecnico di Torino. She specializes in experimental mechanics, high strain rate testing, and finite element analysis of materials under extreme conditions. Research areas: Energy deposition in matter, Material science, Plasticity Member of DYMAT, INFN, and AIAS associations Research Focus : Her work examines dynamic material behavior across multiple domains: high strain rate testing , high-temperature mechanics , and 3D printed composites . She develops advanced methodologies for post-necking analysis in metals and investigates thermomechanical properties of alloys like Inconel 718 and tungsten. Scientific Contributions : Recent publications highlight 3D printed carbon-epoxy crash boxes, laser-driven shock testing for particle accelerators, and novel strain hardening identification techniques. Her work spans composite materials, computational mechanics, and radiation-resistant structures. Awards & Memberships : DYMAT (2017-) INFN (2017-) AIAS (2010-) Guest Editor, Shock and Vibration (2020-) Advising : Supervises PhD candidates Francesco Bandinelli and Marta Beltramo in Mechanical Engineering. Teaching : Leads courses on Structural Simulation Techniques and Mechanics of Materials.

Alex WhiteView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Thermofluids
• Two-Phase Flow
• Thermodynamics
• +6 more

Dr. Alex White is a Senior Lecturer in Thermofluids at the Department of Engineering, Cambridge University, and a Fellow and Director of Studies at Peterhouse. He earned his undergraduate and PhD degrees from King's College, Cambridge, and conducted postdoctoral research in Cambridge, Lyon, and Toulouse before returning to Cambridge in 2000 as part of the Energy Group. His research focuses on two-phase flow (vapour-droplet flows), thermodynamics of power generation, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and heat pumps. His work includes theoretical and numerical studies on warm dense matter, electron transport, and energy storage systems like pumped thermal and compressed air storage. Recent publications emphasize warm dense matter physics, inertial confinement fusion, and thermal energy storage innovations. His theoretical analyses and simulations span high-energy-density plasmas, nonlocal electron stopping power, and hybrid energy systems. While no scientific awards are documented, his contributions to thermofluids and extreme condition physics are significant.

• Ballistics
• Structural Engineering
• Blast Engineering
• +3 more

Dr. Elvedin Kljuno serves as a Visiting Professor at the International University of Sarajevo (IUS), Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he contributes expertise in defense-related engineering disciplines. His academic profile centers on advanced computational methodologies applied to complex mechanical systems and explosive dynamics. His research spans five core domains: Ballistics (armor penetration mechanics, artillery projectile dynamics, and fragmentation effects) Structural Engineering (stress/strain analysis of piping systems using 3D scanning and numerical methods) Blast Engineering (internal/external blast load prediction and overpressure modeling) Aerodynamics (trajectory modeling for irregular bodies under extreme forces) Robotics (cable-driven locomotion systems and bipedal mechanics) His work consistently integrates finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics, and experimental validation to solve high-stakes engineering problems. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2019-2024) reveals a pronounced focus on defense technology applications, particularly in projectile dynamics (40% of works), structural integrity under explosive loads (30%), and advanced simulation techniques (30%). Key trends include the development of novel numerical frameworks for blast wave propagation, refinement of armor penetration models, and innovative stress analysis methodologies using 3D scanning. His research demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections between mechanical engineering, materials science, and military technology. While no scientific awards or doctoral students are documented in available sources, Dr. Kljuno maintains active research output through IUS's engineering programs. His work shows particular relevance to military R&D institutions focused on munitions design, structural survivability, and high-speed aerodynamics.

Pei-Chun KaoView profile

Associate Professor

• Biomechanics
• Motor Control
• Gait Rehabilitation
• +4 more

Pei-Chun Kao is an Associate Professor at the Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, serving as Scientific Lead in Robot-Assisted Movement Biomechanics at the NERVE Center and UMOVE Center Researcher. Her work bridges engineering and clinical rehabilitation through biomechanics research focused on human locomotion. Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in Biomechanics (2009) and M.S. in Movement Science (2003) from the University of Michigan, B.S. in Physical Therapy (2000) from National Taiwan University, and postdoctoral training at the University of Delaware (2014). Ph.D. Biomechanics, University of Michigan (2009) M.S. Movement Science, University of Michigan (2003) B.S. Physical Therapy, National Taiwan University (2000) Dr. Kao's research centers on gait rehabilitation, biomechanics, and neuromuscular control of human walking , with specific expertise in assistive technology, cognitive-motor interference, and fall prevention. She develops wearable devices for biofeedback and rehabilitation interventions through rigorous analysis of motor adaptation principles. Her experimental approaches combine robotic exoskeletons, functional electrical stimulation (FES), and biomechanical modeling to address movement disorders across diverse populations. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a concentrated research trajectory in exoskeleton-human interaction dynamics (60% of articles), with significant focus on cognitive-motor interference during walking (25%) and military/occupational ergonomics (15%). Key trends include the development of adaptive control algorithms for rehabilitation robotics, quantification of fatigue effects on gait stability, and characterization of dual-task performance in aging populations. Her scientific recognition includes: President's Poster Award (2011) - American Society of Biomechanics Multiple University of Michigan graduate fellowships (2005-2009) Dr. Kao directs substantial research programs funded by NSF, U.S. Army, and ASTM International, with current projects including Fabric-embedded Dynamic Sensing for Adaptive Exoskeleton Assistance (NSF #1955979) and multiple SLIMMER exoskeleton initiatives for soldier performance enhancement. Her collaborative network spans engineering, military research, and clinical rehabilitation teams. As Scientific Lead at the NERVE Center, she directs research on robot-assisted movement biomechanics, leveraging the center's advanced motion capture and virtual reality facilities to develop next-generation rehabilitation technologies with direct clinical applications.

Michael KochView profile

Professor

• Robotics
• Additive Manufacturing
• Materials Science
• +3 more

Prof. Michael Koch is a Professor at Technische Hochschule Nürnberg, specializing in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of robotics, materials science, and industrial engineering. His work focuses on advancing additive manufacturing, robotics integration, and computational simulation in manufacturing processes. He holds a Dr.-Ing. and Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing., reflecting his expertise in engineering and applied sciences. Research interests include 3D printing optimization, cyber-physical systems, and safety analysis of materials under mechanical stress. He has contributed to innovations in robotics programming via augmented reality and developed frameworks for automated manufacturing processes. His studies on biomedical applications, such as ovarian cancer modeling, demonstrate a cross-disciplinary approach. Key projects involve robot-guided CT scanning for automotive industry 4.0, part orientation evaluation for additive manufacturing (Poeam), and safety protocols for explosives (PBX). His work emphasizes integrating real-world geometry data into simulations to improve accuracy and efficiency. Prof. Koch’s publications span over three decades, with a focus on manufacturing, robotics, and materials science. He has pioneered methods for energy-efficient CO2 capture systems and explored microstructural changes in materials under dynamic loading.

Mike LauderView profile

Professor

• Sports Biomechanics
• Water-based Sports Technique Analysis
• Resistance Exercise Biomechanics
• +3 more

Professor Mike Lauder serves as Director of the Institute of Applied Sciences and Cross-Institutional Lead for Innovation at the University of Chichester. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science (1996) and a PhD in Sport Biomechanics (1999). His academic leadership spans three academic areas: Sport and Life Sciences, Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, and Nursing and Allied Health. He oversees apprenticeship programs funded by £1.2m in external grants and manages a portfolio of ~40 undergraduate and postgraduate programs. His research focuses on sports biomechanics, including water-based sports (kayaking, swimming), resistance exercise, and concussion in sports. He leads the Centre for Health and Applied Sport and Exercise Research (CHASER) and Centre for Future Technologies. Research interests include optimizing water-based sports techniques, measuring mechanical power in resistance training, and assessing risks of heading in football. He has secured over £5.6m in research funding and managed EU-funded projects like Interreg 2 Seas. His work contributed to a 53% 4* rating in the REF2014 impact case study for sailing performance. He supervises PhD students and has examined over 12 PhDs internationally. Professional roles include membership in BASES (British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences) and British Society for Research on Ageing. Key achievements include biomechanical support for Olympic teams (British Bobsleigh, Canoe Union, Diving) and innovations in athlete development. His publications span journals like Journal of Human Kinetics and Science and Medicine in Football , addressing topics from kayaking propulsion to neurofilament light biomarkers in sports injuries. He balances administrative leadership with research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in sports science and technology.

• Dielectric phenomena
• Energy systems and power engineering
• Nano-dielectrics
• +7 more

Jennifer L. Zirnheld, PhD, is Associate Professor and Director of Energy Systems Integration in the Department of Electrical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences at the University at Buffalo, where she also holds the Maxwell Technologies Inc. Professorship. Education: PhD, Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, 2004 MS, Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, 1997 BS, Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, 1993 Her research intersects high-voltage engineering, dielectric materials, pulsed-power systems, and emerging biomedical applications of non-thermal plasma. Core themes include insulation coordination for mobility and energy platforms, nano-dielectrics, multifactor stress aging, partial discharge analysis, and the integration of complex energy systems. A recent translational direction involves investigating non-thermal plasma for targeted cancer-cell treatment. Across more than 50 journal and conference publications, her work consistently couples fundamental dielectric physics with practical energy-system challenges. Early studies concentrated on capacitor reliability, thin-film breakdown, and micro-discharge detection under repetitive pulsed stresses. Mid-career contributions expanded to dielectric elastomer actuators, energy-harvesting circuits, and exploding-metal-foil phenomena. Since 2015, a growing portfolio explores plasma–cell interactions, ROS induction in melanoma, and gap-junction-mediated feedback mechanisms for combination cancer therapies. Awards & Honors IEEE Region 1 Outstanding Teaching Award UB Student Association Milton Plesur Excellence in Teaching Award (twice) UB Career Services “Positive Influence on Students” (twice) Tau Beta Pi NY Nu Professor of the Year UB Mentor of Excellence & President Emeritus Meyerson Award UB Alumni Association Dr. Richard T. Sarkin Award for Excellence in Teaching, 2013 Student Mentoring & Outreach: Dr. Zirnheld mentors both graduate and undergraduate researchers and actively broadens participation through NSF programs such as LSAMP, Bridges to the Doctorate, and McNair. She serves on the steering committee for UB’s iSEED initiative and the interdisciplinary RENEW (Research and Education in eNergy, Environment and Water) program. Laboratories & Teams: She directs the Energy Systems Integration activity, leveraging UB’s state-of-the-art high-voltage, pulsed-power, and plasma laboratories. Collaborations span government (DoD/US Army), industry (National Grid USA, Imperial Machine & Tool Co.), and clinical partners to translate bench-top plasma devices toward cancer-therapy prototypes.

• Fracture Mechanics
• Aerospace Materials
• Composite Materials
• +6 more

Dr. Wieslaw K Binienda is a Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Akron's College of Engineering and Polymer Science, where he has served since 1988. He co-directs the Gas and Turbine Research and Testing Laboratory. His expertise spans fracture mechanics, composite materials characterization, and computational methods like FEA and CFD. He has received prestigious awards including the NASA 'Turning Goals Into Reality Award' and ASCE's Richard R. Torrens Award for editorial leadership. Education: Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, Drexel University (1987) M.S., Mechanical Engineering, Drexel University (1985) B.S./M.S., Motor Vehicles and Heavy Duty Machines, Warsaw Polytechnic University (1980) Research Interests: Focuses on advanced composite materials' mechanical behavior under extreme conditions, including high-energy impact, thermal cycling, and dynamic loading. Specializes in failure analysis using multiscale modeling and experimental validation. Active in aerospace applications like turbine durability and structural safety. Awards: NASA 'Turning Goals Into Reality Award' ASCE Aerospace Division 2010 Outstanding Professional Service Award ASCE 2013 Richard R. Torrens Award Fellow, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Lab & Collaborations: Leads the Gas and Turbine Research and Testing Laboratory, advancing turbine blade containment, impact analysis, and material testing. Collaborates with industry on aviation safety and composite material innovations.

Jaime Fernández FernándezView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Racket Sports Biomechanics
• +3 more

Jaime Fernández Fernández is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Leon's Faculty of Physical Activity and Sports Sciences. His research focuses on sports performance optimization, injury prevention, and biomechanical analysis in racket sports. Doctorate from Universidad de Oviedo (2007) Specializes in tennis, badminton, and handball performance Current research emphasizes neuromuscular adaptations and training load monitoring Jaime's research spans multiple disciplines including Sports Science , Exercise Physiology , and Racket Sports Biomechanics . His work explores neuromuscular performance , surface-specific training adaptations , and injury prevention strategies for youth athletes. Recent publications demonstrate expertise in serve mechanics analysis using Xsens technology, training load comparisons between racket and non-racket drills, and sex-based performance differences in various racket sports. Current affiliations include: University of Leon (Since 2019 - Full Professor) Miguel Hernández University of Elche (2013-2017 - Assistant Professor)

Brian SchillingView profile

Professor

• Human Performance
• Exercise Physiology
• Military and Tactical Physiology
• +6 more

Brian Schilling is a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition Sciences at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he has served since 2016. His academic work centers on human performance optimization for physically demanding professions, including military, law enforcement, and first responders. Schilling leads the Physically Demanding Professions Research Laboratory , focusing on training methodologies and physiological adaptations. He teaches Research Methods , Scientific Writing & Communication , and courses on Military/First Responder Human Performance . Education: M.S. in Exercise Science, Appalachian State University (1999) Ph.D. in Biology, University of Memphis (2004) Research Focus: Physical demands of tactical professions (military, law enforcement, fire/rescue) Exercise Physiology as a STEM discipline for workforce development Neuromuscular adaptations to resistance training Oxidative stress and recovery mechanisms Parkinson's disease rehabilitation through resistance training Publication Trends: His recent work investigates tactical athlete performance metrics, military equipment ergonomics, and physiological responses to training interventions. Articles from 2017-2024 emphasize biomechanics , fatigue analysis , and specialized training protocols for extreme environments. Additional Roles: Schilling serves as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research , contributing to evidence-led practices in sports and military performance domains.

Qian WangView profile

Professor

• Structural Engineering
• Mechanics and Materials
• Reliability Analysis
• +4 more

Qian Wang is an Industry Professor in the Department of Civil and Urban Engineering at New York University. With expertise in structures, mechanics and materials, their work focuses on reliability analysis, design optimization, resilient and sustainable infrastructures, crash and impact analysis, and engineering education. Ph.D. in Structures, Mechanics and Materials from University of Iowa Research interests span structural reliability, blast-resistant design, transportation infrastructure resilience, and educational psychology. Their publications from 2015-2023 cover finite element modeling, RBF-HDMR optimization, and code-compliant concrete/steel design. Recent research includes: Blast-resistant design of aging steel structures Fire analysis of curved weathering steel bridges Crashworthiness of roadside barriers Reliability modeling for tunnels and RC buildings Scientific honors include: UTRC Grant 49198-21-28 UTRC Grant 49198-28-26 Professional Engineer (PE) license LEED AP certification PMP certification Active in both structural engineering research and engineering education studies, they contribute to advancing infrastructure resilience, optimization methodologies, and pedagogical practices.

Zach AgioutantisView profile

Professor

• Rock Mechanics
• Geomechanics
• Subsidence Engineering
• +3 more

Zach Agioutantis is the Foundation Professor and Department Chair of Mining Engineering at the University of Kentucky's Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering. He has held academic positions at the Technical University of Crete, Greece, from 1989 to 2014, including roles as Professor, Director of the Rock Mechanics Lab, and various faculty ranks. PhD, Mining and Minerals Engineering, Virginia Tech (1987) MSc, Mining and Minerals Engineering, Virginia Tech (1984) Diploma, Mining and Metallurgical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens (1982) His research spans Rock Mechanics, Geomechanics, Subsidence Engineering, Data Management, and Sustainable Mining . Recent work focuses on blast vibration modeling, groundwater flow simulation, and transitioning from open-pit to underground mining. He has pioneered LiDAR navigation in underground openings and developed software tools for mine design. Zach's 15 most recent publications (2025–2024) address dynamic subsidence prediction, coal pillar stability, autonomous mining systems, and environmental impacts of longwall mining. Key subfields include Blast Fragmentation , Geohazard Assessment , and Mine Automation . He has directed the Rock Mechanics Lab at Technical University of Crete and contributed to software development projects like Analysis of Coal Pillar Stability (ACPS). His work integrates machine learning and numerical modeling for methane gas forecasting and structural safety in mines.

Navid BahraniView profile

Associate Professor

• Mining Geomechanics
• Rock Mechanics
• Underground Excavation Support Design
• +3 more

Dr. Navid Bahrani is an Associate Professor and Graduate Coordinator in the Department of Civil and Resource Engineering at Dalhousie University's Faculty of Engineering in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. With over 10 years of professional experience in mining geomechanics, he brings both academic expertise and practical industry knowledge to his teaching and research. Dr. Bahrani's educational background includes: Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering from Azad University, Tehran, Iran (2006) Master of Science in Mining Engineering from University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (2009) Doctor of Philosophy in Natural Resources Engineering from Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada (2015) Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the University of Toronto's Lassonde Institute of Mining (2015-2017) Dr. Bahrani's research focuses on mining geomechanics , with particular emphasis on rock mechanics, underground excavation support design, numerical modeling in geotechnical engineering, brittle fracture phenomena, and rock slope stability. His work bridges theoretical understanding with practical applications in mining and civil engineering projects. He employs advanced computational methods to simulate rock behavior under various loading conditions, with special attention to the mechanical response of jointed and defected rock masses. His research has significant implications for mine design, ground support systems, and slope stability analysis in both mining and civil engineering contexts. Analysis of Dr. Bahrani's publication record reveals a strong focus on the application of numerical modeling techniques to solve complex rock mechanics problems. His work demonstrates evolving expertise from fundamental rock mechanics characterization to sophisticated 3D modeling of mining-induced stress changes and support system behavior. A notable trend in his research is the development and validation of grain-based models that bridge the gap between continuum and discontinuum approaches in rock mechanics simulation. His publications consistently address practical engineering challenges while advancing theoretical understanding of rock mass behavior. Dr. Bahrani has received recognition for his scholarly contributions: Peter Cundall Honorable Mention Award for paper: 'Bahrani N. and Kaiser P.K. 2016. Integrated grain-based-DFN model for simulation of defected rock, Proceedings of the 4th Symposium on Applied Numerical Modeling, Peru.' As Graduate Coordinator for the Department of Civil and Resource Engineering, Dr. Bahrani oversees graduate programs and advises students in mining and geotechnical engineering. His research has been supported by collaborations with industry partners including MIRARCO's Geomechanics Research Centre and various mining operations across North America. He has been involved in numerous projects related to in situ stress measurement, rock mass deformation monitoring, laboratory testing, and numerical modeling for practical mining applications. Dr. Bahrani maintains active professional affiliations with several organizations including the International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM), Canadian Rock Mechanics Association (CARMA), Canadian Geotechnical Society (CGS), International Society of Explosives Engineers (ISEE), and The Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM). His work connects with broader research communities focused on rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering applications in mining contexts.

Metin TanoğluView profile

Professor

• Composite Materials
• Material Testing and Analysis
• Armor Materials
• +9 more

Metin Tanoğlu is a Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Izmir Institute of Technology (IYTE), where he has been serving since 2000. He has held various academic positions at IYTE, progressing from Assistant Professor (2000-2004), to Associate Professor (2004-2009), and finally to full Professor (2009-present). Prior to his appointment at IYTE, he was a Research Assistant at the University of Delaware's Center for Composite Materials from 1996-2000. Professor Tanoğlu received his Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering from Istanbul Technical University in 1992 (graduating as second in his class), followed by his Master's (1996) and Doctorate (2000) in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Delaware, USA. His doctoral research focused on 'Characterization of the fiber/matrix interphase properties under various loading conditions' at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware. Tanoğlu's research focuses on composite materials, particularly in the areas of composite materials and production technologies, armor materials, polymer materials, nanocomposites, and characterization of microstructure, physical, and mechanical properties of materials. His work spans both fundamental research and applied projects with significant industrial and defense applications. He has led numerous research projects funded by TÜBİTAK, DPT, SANTEZ, KOSGEB, and the Ministry of National Defense. His publication record includes 54 international journal articles, 35 international and 29 national conference papers, and one patent. The most recent publications demonstrate his continued focus on advanced composite systems, particularly carbon fiber/epoxy composites enhanced with nanofibers, hydrogen storage vessels, sandwich structures for blast protection, and shear thickening fluids for body armor applications. 2006 TÜBİTAK FP6 Project Encouragement Award 2000 Progress Award - Center for Composite Materials, University of Delaware, USA 1999 Graduate Research Award, University of Delaware, USA 1992 Graduation Award (Second in Department), Istanbul Technical University 1992 Foreign Graduate and Doctoral Scholarship, Higher Education Council (YÖK) Professor Tanoğlu has supervised numerous graduate students, with 6 PhD theses and over 20 Master's theses completed under his guidance. His research has been supported by significant grants from national funding agencies and industry partnerships with companies including TOFAŞ, KordSA Global, Olgun Çelik, and others. He has also held multiple administrative positions at IYTE, including Department Chair of Mechanical Engineering, Deputy Dean, and Vice Rector.