Assoc Prof Ng Teng Yong is an Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (NTU), specializing in numerical modeling and simulation. With a background as Research Manager at A*STAR Institute of High Performance Computing, his work spans materials science, nanotechnology, and aerospace engineering. Current focus on graphene-based desalination membranes Expertise in molecular dynamics simulations Investigates nanoscale fluid mechanics and structural dynamics Recent publications highlight advancements in energy-efficient electrodialysis, smart robotics, and nonlinear vibration analysis. His interdisciplinary approach integrates computational methods with experimental validation in additive manufacturing and soft material mechanics.
Naresh N. Thadhani is a Professor and Chair of Materials Science and Engineering at Georgia Tech, with an adjunct role in the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on shock-induced material changes, high-strain-rate mechanics, and dynamic compaction of powders. He leads a lab equipped with advanced facilities like gas guns and laser-accelerated systems for studying impacts up to 1200 m/s. Education: Ph.D., New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (1984); M.S., South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (1981); B.E., University of Rajasthan, India (1980). Research interests include shock compression of metals/ceramics, phase transformations in metallic glasses, and structural energetic materials. His work combines experimental diagnostics (e.g., VISAR, photonic Doppler velocimetry) with computational modeling (CTH/ALE3D codes). Key awards: APS Fellow (2007), ASM International Fellow (2000). Editorial roles include Associate Editor of Shock Waves and Key Reader for Metallurgical and Materials Transactions . Lab & Group: A team of 1 postdoctoral fellow, 11 PhD students, and 3 undergraduates. Over 30 graduates to date. Active in advisory roles for national/international conferences and industrial consultancies. Future work emphasizes nanocomposite magnets and meso-scale modeling of heterogeneous materials under shock.
Simo Hostikka is a Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Aalto University's School of Engineering. His research focuses on fire safety engineering , utilizing numerical fire simulations to address critical challenges in building and infrastructure safety. Key Expertise: Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) development, thermal radiation heat transfer, pyrolysis modeling, fire toxicity calculations, and probabilistic risk analysis. Leadership: Supervises advanced fire safety research and contributes to international fire safety standards. Research Trends: Recent publications emphasize fire toxicity modeling , hydrogen fire safety , radiation heat transfer , and fire retardancy of polymeric materials . His work bridges computational methods with real-world fire safety applications. Scientific Awards: Philip Thomas Medal of Excellence (2008, 2005) Sjölin Award (2012) Interflam Trophy (2007) Harmathy Award (2020, 2019) Dean’s Award for Best MSc Thesis (2020) Best Paper in Rakenteiden Mekaniikka (2009) Advising: Supervised Topi Sikanen, who received the Young Talent Award from the International Water Mist Association.
Yiguang Ju is the Robert Porter Patterson Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Princeton University, affiliated with the HMEI Grand Challenges Program. His research focuses on plasma-assisted combustion, alternative fuels, and nano-material synthesis via flame processes. He investigates energy-efficient systems for microscale energy conversion, catalytic reactions, and low-temperature plasma chemistry. Research interests include non-equilibrium plasma dynamics, ammonia synthesis, and high-pressure oxidation kinetics. He develops advanced diagnostics like hybrid laser spectroscopy and machine learning models to study reaction mechanisms. Recent work explores plasma-enhanced combustion for hydrogen and alternative fuels, with applications in energy storage and emission reduction. His studies address challenges in plasma-chemistry interactions, material synthesis, and high-pressure combustion systems. His articles highlight innovations in plasma catalysis, combustion kinetics, and atmospheric chemistry. Collaborative projects include plasma-based material recycling and supercritical-pressure reactor analysis. He leads initiatives in clean energy technologies and sustainable chemical processes.
Bart Somers is an Associate Professor at Eindhoven University of Technology , affiliated with the Department of Mechanical Engineering . His primary affiliations include the Power & Flow Group and his own research group, Group Somers , alongside cross-cutting roles in EAISI (Eindhoven Artificial Intelligence Systems Institute) and EIRES (Eindhoven Research on Innovation and Sustainability in Energy Systems). He focuses on advancing combustion science , sustainable fuels , and engine efficiency , leveraging computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and experimental methods. His research interests span alternative fuels (hydrogen, bio-oils, biofuels), high-pressure spray combustion , and low-emission engine design . He investigates combustion optimization through CFD tools like large-eddy simulation (LES) and flamelet-generated manifolds (FGM), emphasizing fuel stratification , ignition dynamics , and emission control . His work bridges experimental diagnostics (e.g., spray visualization, OH* chemiluminescence) and numerical modeling. Academically, he teaches courses such as Thermodynamics , Clean Engines and Future Fuels , and Sustainable Vehicles , integrating practical projects into curricula. His educational activities emphasize interdisciplinary sustainability and innovation, including honors programs focused on professional development. Recent publications highlight his contributions to hydrogen injection strategies, biofuel applications in genset engines, and optimization of diesel-biofuel blends. His work aligns with global sustainability goals, addressing energy transition challenges through advanced combustion technologies.
Kareem Ahmed is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Central Florida (UCF) and a faculty member of the Center for Advanced Turbomachinery and Energy Research. He leads research in advanced propulsion and energy systems, focusing on high-speed turbulent combustion, detonations, and hypersonic technologies. His work includes groundbreaking projects in detonation-based propulsion for hypersonic flight and power generation, supported by over $17 million in grants from NASA, AFOSR, and DOE. Education: Ph.D. and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, University at Buffalo (SUNY) B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University Research Interests: Ahmed’s expertise spans detonation dynamics, supersonic reacting flows, flow-flame control, and advanced laser diagnostics . His team explores innovations like rotating detonation engines (RDEs) and scramjet combustion systems, with applications in aerospace defense and space exploration. Awards and Recognition: AIAA Associate Fellow American Chemical Society Doctoral New Investigator Award AFOSR Summer Faculty Fellowship UCF Trustee Chair (2025–2030) Grants & Advising: PI of over $17M in research funding; mentors 145+ doctoral, master’s, and undergraduate students. Collaborates with industry leaders like GE, Aerojet Rocketdyne, and Pratt & Whitney. Labs & Teams: Director of UCF’s Center of Excellence in Hypersonic and Space Propulsion, advancing technologies for 15-minute transcontinental flight and clean rocket fuels.
Norwegian University of Science And TechnologyNorway
Terese Løvås serves as Vice Dean of Research and Innovation at the Faculty of Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), where she leads strategic development of research and innovation activities. She concurrently holds the position of Professor of Combustion and Thermodynamics within the Department of Energy and Process Engineering. Her leadership responsibilities include oversight of Centers of Excellence, Horizon Europe projects, and PhD researcher training. Her research focuses on combustion engineering and alternative fuel technologies , particularly investigating ammonia and hydrogen combustion for zero-emission engines, biomass gasification processes, and reactive multiphase flow modeling. She heads the Engine Lab at NTNU and teaches Thermodynamics, Heat, and Combustion courses. Her work bridges theoretical modeling with experimental validation in sustainable energy systems. Løvås actively contributes to major research initiatives including LowEmission (SFI center), ACTIVATE (ammonia-powered agricultural vehicles), AMAZE (ammonia zero-emission), and CAHEMA (marine ammonia/hydrogen engines). Her publications reveal strong trends in ammonia combustion chemistry , emissions reduction , and advanced computational modeling for sustainable fuel systems, with increasing focus on nitrogen oxide formation mechanisms and dual-fuel strategies. Member of the Board of Directors, Combustion Institute (2022–present) Joint Editor, Proceedings of the Combustion Institute (2019–present) Alumni Fellow in Engineering, Churchill College, Cambridge University As Vice Dean, she manages NTNU's Research and Innovation Committee and represents the faculty in NTNU's Research and Innovation Committee. She supervises multiple PhD candidates and leads international collaborations through projects funded by the Norwegian Research Council, Nordic Energy Research, and EU programs. Her laboratory work focuses on optical engine diagnostics and advanced combustion testing. Løvås maintains active industry engagement through her leadership in the ComKin Research Group and membership in the Institute of Physics and Scandinavian-Nordic Section of the Combustion Institute. Her current work emphasizes practical implementation of ammonia-fueled engine technologies for marine and agricultural applications.
Noel T. Clemens serves as a Professor and holds the prestigious Clare Cockrell Williams Centennial Chair in Engineering within the Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics Department at the University of Texas at Austin's Cockrell School of Engineering. He has been a faculty member since 1993 and served as department chair from 2012 to 2020. His research laboratory is part of the Center for Aeromechanics Research (CAR) where he directs the Flowfield Imaging Laboratory. Dr. Clemens' research focuses on experimental investigations of hypersonic flows, turbulent combustion, and advanced optical diagnostic techniques. His current work emphasizes 3D shock wave/boundary layer interactions, inlet unstart control, flashback in high-pressure combustors, turbulent combustion with non-equilibrium effects, and high-temperature ablation phenomena. He has pioneered laser-based measurement techniques for extreme environments, particularly for hypersonic flight applications where conventional measurement approaches fail. His recent publication record through 2025 demonstrates continued leadership in experimental fluid dynamics, with particular emphasis on plasma diagnostics for ablation studies, shock/boundary layer interaction physics, and advanced optical measurement techniques for extreme environments. The research spans fundamental fluid mechanics investigations to applied aerospace engineering problems relevant to hypersonic vehicle development. Elected to National Academy of Engineering (2024) AIAA Aerodynamic Measurement Technology Award (2022) Elected AIAA Fellow (2019) National Science Foundation Presidential Faculty Fellow (1996) Editor-in-Chief of Experiments in Fluids (2009-2013) Fellow of the American Physical Society Dr. Clemens has secured substantial research funding for his experimental investigations in hypersonics and combustion, leading multiple major research projects with government and industry partners. His laboratory facilities include advanced wind tunnels and state-of-the-art optical diagnostic systems for high-speed flow visualization. The Flowfield Imaging Laboratory at UT Austin serves as a national resource for advanced flow measurement techniques development. As an educator, he teaches core courses in compressible flow, viscous flow, combustion, experimental methods, and laser diagnostic techniques, training the next generation of aerospace engineers in both fundamental principles and cutting-edge measurement technologies.
Franklin Goldsmith serves as Associate Professor of Engineering within Brown University's School of Engineering, where his research bridges fundamental chemical kinetics with practical combustion applications. His work directly impacts energy conversion technologies and emission reduction strategies through rigorous investigation of reaction mechanisms. His academic foundation includes: PhD in Chemical Engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2010) BS in Chemical Engineering from North Carolina State University (2003) BA in Chemistry from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (1998) Goldsmith's research program centers on radical reaction kinetics and low-temperature oxidation phenomena , employing both computational master equation modeling and experimental techniques like shock tube spectroscopy and synchrotron photoionization. His investigations into non-Boltzmann energy distributions and pressure-dependent rate coefficients have established new frameworks for understanding ignition chemistry. The Thermochemistry for Combustion Database project exemplifies his commitment to foundational data resources for the field. Analysis of his publication record reveals three dominant research thrusts: (1) detailed kinetic modeling of hydrocarbon oxidation, particularly propane systems; (2) development of computational methodologies for pressure-dependent rate estimation; and (3) fundamental studies of radical-molecule interactions. His work consistently integrates high-precision experimental validation with theoretical frameworks, as evidenced by collaborations with national laboratories. Goldsmith teaches Brown's core chemical engineering curriculum including ENGN 1120 (Reaction Kinetics and Reactor Design) and ENGN 1130 (Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics), alongside specialized graduate courses in heterogeneous catalysis (ENGN 2751) and chemically reacting flow (ENGN 2910Q). His educational approach emphasizes the connection between molecular-scale kinetics and reactor design principles. His research group maintains active collaborations with Argonne National Laboratory (Klippenstein), MIT (Green), and Sandia National Laboratories (Taatjes), focusing on multiscale informatics for complex reaction systems. Current projects investigate biomass-derived fuel combustion and catalytic partial oxidation mechanisms using spatially resolved experimental techniques.
Sadaf Sobhani is an Assistant Professor in the Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University. Her research focuses on thermal management and energy conversion with applications in high-efficiency, low-emission energy systems, spacecraft thermal control, and electrochemical reactors for carbon dioxide conversion. Dr. Sobhani's educational background includes a B.S. (2014), M.S. (2015), and Ph.D. (2019) in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University. During her doctoral studies, she worked as a research associate at the NASA Ames Research Center and later joined the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory as a postdoctoral researcher. Her research program integrates computational modeling, experimental techniques, and advanced manufacturing to investigate flow, heat transfer, and chemical reactions in porous media. She leverages the connection between micro-scale features and macro-scale transport properties to develop innovative solutions for energy systems. Her work spans multiple disciplines including combustion engineering, electrochemical systems, and thermal management for spacecraft. Dr. Sobhani's publications demonstrate a consistent focus on porous media combustion, heat transfer optimization, and advanced diagnostic techniques. Her recent work has increasingly incorporated additive manufacturing and machine learning approaches to solve complex thermal management challenges, particularly for space applications and carbon dioxide conversion systems. Gallery of Fluid Motion Award, American Physical Society (2018) Accel Innovation Scholarship, Stanford Technology Ventures Program (2017) Graduate Public Service Fellowship, Haas Center for Public Service (2016) Schneider/MAP Sustainable Energy Fellowship, Haas Center for Public Service (2016) Graduate Research Fellowship, National Science Foundation (2015) AIAA Niagara Frontier Section 2025 Young Professional of the Year Award NASA Early Career Faculty Award (2023) NASA Early Stage Innovations Award (2023) Dr. Sobhani leads an active research group and has secured significant funding including a NASA Early Career Faculty Award and a FuzeHub grant with industry partners Lithoz America and Dimensional Energy. She has developed a new spacecraft thermal management course at Cornell and is actively mentoring students in her laboratory research. The Sobhani Lab, located at 182 Grumman Hall, spans approximately 850 sq. ft. and focuses on spacecraft thermal control, combustion research, non-intrusive diagnostic methods, and ceramic additive manufacturing. The lab utilizes advanced facilities including the Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility and the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source.
Dr Stathis Tingas is a Lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University's School of Computing Engineering and the Built Environment. His research focuses on hydrogen fuel systems, combustion engineering, and sustainable transportation technologies. With numerous publications in high-impact journals and conference proceedings, Dr Tingas has established himself as a significant contributor to the field of alternative energy systems. Dr Tingas' research interests center on hydrogen and ammonia as alternative fuels for transportation, with particular emphasis on combustion characteristics, engine performance, and emissions control. His work spans theoretical modeling, computational analysis, and practical applications for decarbonizing various transportation sectors including aviation, heavy-duty vehicles, and maritime transport. Recent publications demonstrate his focus on hybrid propulsion systems combining fuel cells with traditional engine technologies. Dr Tingas' publication record shows consistent productivity with research outputs spanning from fundamental combustion science to applied engineering solutions. His work often employs computational singular perturbation techniques for analyzing complex combustion phenomena, with recent focus shifting toward practical applications of hydrogen and ammonia fuels in real-world engine systems. The trend in his publications indicates growing emphasis on zero-emission transportation solutions aligned with net-zero targets. Dr Tingas serves as a second supervisor for PhD students, including Richard Wallace who is working on subsurface hydrogen storage simulation. He has successfully secured multiple research grants from UK government bodies including the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology, Scottish Government, and the Royal Society of Edinburgh, with projects totaling over £500,000 in funding. His current research portfolio includes projects focused on accelerating clean energy technology development, creating sustainable cities, advancing electromobility, and developing zero-carbon hydrogen engines for heavy transport applications. These projects demonstrate his commitment to addressing practical challenges in the transition to sustainable energy systems.
Matthias Ihme is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Photon Science Directorate at Stanford University. His research focuses on large-eddy simulation (LES) of turbulent reacting flows, aeroacoustics, combustion-generated noise, numerical methods, and high-order schemes. He holds a Ph.D. from Stanford University (2008), an M.Sc. in Computational Engineering from the University of Erlangen (Germany, 2002), and a Dipl.-Ing. in Mechanical Engineering from Munich University of Applied Sciences (Germany, 2000). His work bridges computational fluid dynamics, combustion science, and photon science, with notable contributions to supercritical fluid dynamics, machine learning integration in fluid simulations, and high-fidelity atmospheric transport modeling. Recent research emphasizes ultrafast cluster dynamics, shock-induced interface behavior, and stochastic ignition mechanisms in advanced fuel systems. Publications highlight interdisciplinary advancements, including physics-informed ML frameworks for reacting flows and experimental studies using X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy. His projects often involve high-performance computing and collaboration with national labs like SLAC.
Timothy Jacobs is Professor and Head of Multidisciplinary Engineering at Texas A&M University, with joint appointment in Mechanical Engineering. His research advances combustion science, emission control, and alternative fuel applications. Education: Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan (2005) M.S. Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan (2002) B.S.E. Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan (1999) Research focuses on fundamental combustion processes in natural gas engines, developing low-temperature combustion strategies and aftertreatment integration. Recent work optimizes prechamber ignition systems for large-bore engines and hydrogen production via piston reactors. Experimental diagnostics characterize cycle variability, unburned emissions, and flame dynamics. Publications demonstrate expertise in combustion modeling, engine control algorithms, and emission formation mechanisms. Applied research supports decarbonization of power generation and marine propulsion. Awards recognize teaching excellence and research leadership, including ASME Fellowship and university professorships. Secures funding for engine technology development from federal agencies and industry partners.
William S. Oates is the Cummins, Inc. Professor of Engineering in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Florida A&M / Florida State University. He holds affiliations with the Mechatronics and Energy Center and the Florida Energy Systems Consortium (FESC). His research focuses on solid mechanics of multifunctional materials, quantum-informed continuum modeling, and applications in robotics, aerospace, and energy systems. He has advised over 20 graduate students and holds awards including ASME Fellow (2018) and NSF CAREER Award (2011). Education: Ph.D. from Georgia Institute of Technology. Research spans smart materials, fractal media mechanics, and quantum computing for material modeling. Key projects include high-temperature sapphire pressure sensors, photomechanical polymers, and Bayesian uncertainty quantification in materials science. Notable awards include DARPA Young Faculty Award (2009) and FSU Guardian of the Flame Teaching Award (2010). His lab collaborates with the National High Magnetic Field Lab and Challenger Learning Center for K-12 outreach. Current research includes quantum algorithm implementation for engineering applications and fractal-based viscoelastic models.
Bret Windom is Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Colorado State University's Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering, specializing in combustion science and alternative fuels. He directs research on physiochemical fuel characterization, laser diagnostics, and energy conversion systems. Research investigates combustion dynamics of sustainable fuels, propulsion systems, and emission reduction strategies. Recent projects include oxymethylene ethers as low-sooting biofuels, hydrogen production systems, and hybrid SOFC-engine power generation. Funded by DOE, ONR, and Caterpillar, his work advances low-carbon energy technologies. Recipient of the SAE Teetor Educator Award (2018) and multiple research fellowships. Leads the Chemical Energy Conversion Laboratory, mentoring graduate students in combustion research. Current industrial collaborations focus on marine engine decarbonization and lubricant ignition behavior. Recent Publications demonstrate strong focus on sustainable fuels (hydrogen, LPG, OMEs), advanced diagnostics (laser spectroscopy, NMR), and energy system integration (SOFC hybrids, scramjets). Article keywords frequently include combustion optimization, emissions reduction, and alternative fuel characterization.
