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Brandon LuciaView profile

Professor

• computer architecture
• computer systems
• programming languages
• +8 more

Brandon Lucia is a Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University's College of Engineering. He holds the Kavčić-Moura Professorship and leads the Abstract research group. As CEO and co-founder of Efficient Computer Corp., he bridges academic research with commercial applications in energy-efficient computing. Dr. Lucia received his Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Washington in 2013, following an MS from the same institution in 2010 and a BS in Computer Science from Tufts University in 2007. His research focuses on the intersection of computer architecture, computer systems, and programming languages, particularly in energy-constrained environments. His primary research interests include intermittent computing, energy harvesting computers, orbital edge computing, and parallel computing systems. Lucia's work addresses fundamental challenges in creating programmable, reliable computing devices that operate without batteries by harvesting energy from their environments, with applications in sensing, medical implants, and space systems. He also investigates software systems and architectures for making parallel computing correct, reliable, and efficient in the post-Moore's Law era. Lucia's publication record shows a clear trajectory toward orbital edge computing and nanosatellite systems, with recent work focusing on computational constellations, visual navigation for satellites, and energy-efficient processing in space. His research spans both theoretical foundations of intermittent computing and practical implementations in hardware and software. 2021 Sloan Research Fellowship 2018 NSF CAREER Award 2018 ASPLOS Best Paper Award IEEE MICRO Top Picks in Computer Architecture (2009, 2010, 2016) 2015 OOPSLA Best Paper Award 2019 IEEE TCCA Young Computer Architect Award 2022 Engineering Faculty Award As an advisor, Lucia has mentored numerous graduate students including Brad Denby, Zhuo Cheng, and Kyle McCleary, many of whom have become co-authors on his significant publications. His lab developed the world's first batteryless PocketQube nanosatellite (Tartan-Artibeus-1), which was deployed to low-Earth orbit aboard the SpaceX Transporter-3 Rocket. Lucia's research has received funding from sources including NSF, DARPA, Google, and VMware, supporting both fundamental research and practical implementations of energy-harvesting computing systems.

Kim Yong-JoeView profile

Associate Professor

• Acoustics and Applied Signal Processing
• Nonlinear Acoustics
• Biomedical Acoustics
• +2 more

Dr. Kim Yong-Joe is an Associate Professor in the J. Mike Walker ’66 Department of Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University. He serves as the Director of the Acoustics and Signal Processing Laboratory (ASPL), founded in 2009. His research focuses on acoustics, applied signal processing, nonlinear acoustics, biomedical acoustics, noise and vibration control, and structural dynamics. He has received notable awards including the 2014 Department of Mechanical Engineering Graduate Teaching Award and the 2014 Pioneer Natural Resources Faculty Fellow II. His lab specializes in wave propagation analysis, ultrasonic structural health monitoring, and acoustophoresis in microfluidic systems. He has collaborated with sponsors like the National Science Foundation, Qatar National Research Fund, and Samsung Techwin. His research has led to advancements in noise reduction technologies, biomedical diagnostics, and nondestructive evaluation methods.

Kareem AhmedView profile

Professor

• Advanced Propulsion Systems
• Hypersonic and Supersonic Combustion
• Detonation Dynamics
• +4 more

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.

• Chemical Propulsion
• Rocket Engine Design
• Combustion Dynamics
• +5 more

William Anderson is a Professor in the School of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Purdue University since 2001. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (Pennsylvania State University, 1996), M.S. in Chemical Engineering (University of Arizona, 1984), and B.S. in Chemistry (Arizona State University, 1979). His research focuses on chemical propulsion systems, combustion dynamics, and rocket engine design methodologies. Key research areas include measurement and modeling of combustion instabilities, rocket combustor stability, and liquid propulsion systems. His work spans experimental and computational studies of thermoacoustic behavior, injector design, and hypergolic reaction mechanisms. He has led projects on resonance igniters, hydrogen peroxide/kerosene combustors, and multi-fidelity modeling frameworks. Anderson has been recognized with the C.T. Sun Research Award (2005) and multiple Best Paper Awards from AIAA conferences. He served as Global Engineering Program Director (2011–2014) and is an Associate Fellow of AIAA. His expertise is showcased in invited lectures at institutions worldwide, including Technical University of Munich and Harbin Institute of Technology. He has authored/co-authored books on rocket propulsion and combustion instability, including Rocket Propulsion (Cambridge University Press, 2018) and edited volumes such as Liquid Rocket Engine Combustion Instability (AIAA, 1995). His lab collaborates internationally on advanced propulsion technologies, emphasizing design, build, and test methodologies.

Steven F. SonView profile

Professor

• Energetic Materials
• Propulsion Systems
• Combustion Science
• +6 more

Steven F. Son is the Alfred J. McAllister Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University, affiliated with the College of Engineering. He holds joint appointments in Aeronautics and Astronautics, Materials Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on energetic materials, combustion science, and propulsion systems, with emphasis on detonation physics, additive manufacturing of explosives, and novel propellant designs. Key projects include developing throttleable solid propellants, studying material-filled void effects on detonation waves, and optimizing nanomaterials for enhanced reactivity. Dr. Son’s work integrates experimental and computational methods, such as laser absorption spectroscopy and machine learning, to advance understanding of high-energy materials. His contributions span from fundamental material characterization to applied systems like Martian perchlorate-based propellants. He leads research at the Maurice J. Zucrow Laboratories, Purdue’s premier facility for propulsion and energetic materials research. His recent studies explore flexoelectricity in fluoropolymer/aluminum composites, laser ignition systems for solid propellants, and thermal decomposition mechanisms of novel energetic formulations. While no awards are explicitly listed, his prolific publication record and interdisciplinary approach highlight his influence in the field.

Kurt MauteView profile

Professor

• Structural Topology Optimization
• Multidisciplinary Optimization
• Aeroelastic Systems Optimization
• +4 more

Kurt Maute is a Professor and Palmer Engineering Chair at the University of Colorado Boulder’s College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS). He currently serves as Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education. His academic journey includes a PhD in Civil Engineering (University of Stuttgart, 1998) and a Dipl.-Ing. in Aerospace Engineering (University of Stuttgart, 1992). He has held progressively senior roles at CU Boulder, including Associate Dean for Research (2012–2014), Associate Professor (2006–2012), and Assistant Professor (2000–2006). Maute’s research focuses on structural topology optimization, multi-disciplinary optimization, and aeroelastic systems. He has pioneered methods integrating XFEM, level-set techniques, and isogeometric analysis for complex engineering problems. His work spans fluid-structure interaction, hypersonic vehicle design, and additive manufacturing. His notable contributions include advancements in immersed boundary methods, multi-material optimization, and uncertainty quantification. Awards include the NSF Career Award (2004) and Palmer Endowed Chair (2016–present). Maute’s lab (Aerospace Mechanics Research Center, AMREC) addresses challenges in computational mechanics and multi-physics systems. He has advised numerous students and led grants in battery modeling, topology optimization, and aerospace systems. His research bridges theory and application, emphasizing industrial relevance and computational innovation.

Ping LuView profile

Professor

• Advanced Guidance Systems
• Aerospace Trajectory Optimization
• Flight Control
• +3 more

Prof. Ping Lu is the Albert W. Johnson Distinguished Professor and Department Chair in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at San Diego State University (SDSU), College of Engineering. He holds a PhD from the University of Michigan. His research focuses on advanced guidance systems, autonomous trajectory planning, flight control, and flight mechanics, with applications to space transportation systems like the X-33, Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle, and Mars missions. Prof. Lu has contributed to major programs such as the Evolvable Mars Campaign and has pioneered algorithms for propellant-optimal guidance and trajectory optimization. His awards include the NASA Director’s Innovation Group Achievement Award (2016) and AIAA Mechanics and Control of Flight Award (2008). Research highlights include model predictive guidance algorithms, six-degree-of-freedom rocket landing optimization, and fuel-optimal strategies for Mars and lunar missions. His work bridges theoretical control systems with practical aerospace applications, emphasizing real-world feasibility through convex optimization and numerical methods. Key contributions include over 150 peer-reviewed articles, with recent trends focusing on end-to-end trajectory optimization from entry to powered descent, asteroid landing trajectory design, and robust abort protocols. He leads SDSU’s aerospace systems research, collaborating on cutting-edge projects like the Pterodactyl entry vehicle and fractional-polynomial guidance frameworks.

Srinivas DharavathView profile

Associate Professor

• Organic Chemistry
• High Energy Density Materials
• Energetic Oxidizers
• +4 more

Srinivas Dharavath is an Associate Professor at the Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur , where he has served since December 2019. His research focuses on Organic Chemistry , High Energy Density Materials , and Medicinal Chemistry , with a specialization in energetic compounds for aerospace and biomedical applications. Education PhD (2014), University of Hyderabad M.Sc (2009), Osmania University B.Sc (2006), Osmania University Current research interests include designing nitrogen-rich azoles, strained-ring molecules for green energetic materials, hypergolic oxidizers for rocket propellants, and drug-like heterocyclic compounds for biological activity. His work bridges synthetic chemistry with applications in defense and pharmaceuticals. Professional experience spans postdoctoral research at McMaster University (Canada, 2017-2019) and University of Idaho (USA, 2015-2017), followed by academic appointments at IIT Kanpur. Contact details include Office: Room 6, Block-A, OLD SAC, and lab phone: 0512-259-2224.

Koroush ShirvanView profile

Associate Professor

• Nuclear Reactor Design
• Advanced Nuclear Fuels
• Small Modular Reactors
• +6 more

Koroush Shirvan is the Atlantic Richfield Career Development Professor in Energy Studies and a tenured faculty member in MIT's Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering within the School of Engineering. Joined in July 2017, he directs the Reactor Technology Course for Utility Executives and leads the Fission Materials in Extreme Environments Lab. His work bridges nuclear engineering with practical industrial applications for decarbonization. His research focuses on reactor design economics, materials testing under irradiation, nuclear safety, and boiling heat transfer. He accelerates innovations in nuclear fuels, small modular reactors, and space propulsion through multi-scale physics integration. Current projects include accident-tolerant fuels, high-temperature materials for microreactors, and AI-driven optimization of reactor systems. His approach combines experimental irradiation testing at MITR with advanced computational modeling. Recent publications reveal strong trends toward economic nuclear deployment via advanced fuel technologies and small modular reactors. AI/ML applications dominate optimization research, particularly for core reload and uncertainty quantification. Materials science under extreme conditions remains central, with growing emphasis on space nuclear applications and horizontal reactor configurations for cost reduction. His scientific recognition includes: Nuclear News 40 under 40 (2024) American Nuclear Society Landis Young Member Engineering Achievement Award (2023) American Nuclear Society Reactor Technology Award (2022) Teaching responsibilities span Sustainable Energy (22.811/081), Graduate Reactor Physics, and Nuclear Design courses. Research grants support experimental programs at MIT Reactor Lab and computational frameworks for reactor-to-repository analysis. He mentors students through senior design projects and graduate research in nuclear fuel cycles. He directs the Fission Materials in Extreme Environments Lab and co-leads MIT's Space Nuclear initiative with AeroAstro. The team conducts irradiation experiments using MITR's high-temperature hydrogen flow capabilities and advanced diagnostics for post-irradiation examination. Current thrusts include nuclear thermal rocket materials testing and fission surface power development for lunar/Mars missions.

Matthias IhmeView profile

Professor

• Combustion Science
• Fluid Dynamics
• Computational Fluid Dynamics
• +5 more

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.

• Combustion Engineering
• Aerospace Propulsion
• Thermodynamics
• +3 more

Carson Slabaugh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics and holds a courtesy appointment in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University. His research focuses on advanced propulsion systems, particularly combustion dynamics in rotating detonation engines (RDEs), rocket combustors, and ramjet configurations. He leads studies on high-pressure flames, laser diagnostics, and fuel injection mechanisms. Key research areas include detonation wave propagation, pressure gain combustion, and the application of advanced optical diagnostics (e.g., CARS, PLIF) to study transient phenomena in extreme environments. His work addresses challenges in next-generation propulsion systems, including hydrogen-blend fuels, methane-oxygen rocket ignition, and solid-fuel ramjet performance. Recent studies emphasize geometric optimization of RDEs, fuel injection dynamics under detonation conditions, and the impact of flow parameters on combustion stability. Collaborations involve experimental validation with high-speed imaging and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to bridge theoretical predictions with real-world performance. Slabaugh’s laboratory develops novel diagnostic tools for megahertz-rate imaging of mixing and combustion processes, advancing understanding of transient flame structures and instability mechanisms. His contributions aim to improve efficiency and operability of propulsion systems for aerospace and terrestrial applications.

Angelo CervoneView profile

Professor

• Astrodynamics
• Space Propulsion Systems
• CubeSat Technology
• +3 more

Angelo Cervone is a Professor at Delft University of Technology's Department of Astrodynamics & Space Missions within the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering. His research focuses on advanced propulsion systems, CubeSat technology, additive manufacturing for space applications, and space systems design. He leads projects like LUMIO, a CubeSat mission to monitor lunar meteoroid impacts, and has contributed to the development of green propellants and smart composite structures with embedded sensors. His work integrates cutting-edge manufacturing techniques like laser powder directed energy deposition with propulsion system optimization, emphasizing sustainable and robust space technologies. Cervone has authored over 130 publications and edited the book Adaptive On- and Off-Earth Environments , reflecting his expertise in off-world infrastructure and robotic production systems. He received the Rhizome Award (2021) for advancing autarkic systems in off-Earth habitat development. Key Projects: LUMIO CubeSat mission, Rhizome habitat system development, smart propellant tank design Research Themes: CubeSat propulsion, lunar exploration, additive manufacturing for space, in-situ resource utilization His articles highlight advancements in micro-thrusters, structural health monitoring via fiber optics, and autonomous navigation systems for deep-space CubeSats. Cervone collaborates globally on missions requiring innovative propulsion architectures and materials science breakthroughs.

• Space Propulsion
• Electric Propulsion
• Plasmadynamics
• +3 more

Joshua L. Rovey is a Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), part of The Grainger College of Engineering. He previously served as Associate Professor from 2017 to 2022 before being promoted to full Professor. He leads the Illinois Space Grant Consortium and directs the Electric Propulsion Laboratory. Rovey holds a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan (2006). His research focuses on space propulsion systems, including electric propulsion, plasmadynamics, and nanosatellite technologies. He has authored influential papers on multimode propulsion systems and lunar mission design. His teaching awards include the 2023 Provost Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching. He teaches courses such as AE 433 (Aerospace Propulsion), AE 435 (Electric Propulsion), and project-based ISG courses. Rovey is an Associate Fellow of the AIAA and a member of the Electric Rocket Propulsion Society. His work has been recognized with the AIAA Lawrence B. Sperry Young Professional Award (2016). Research highlights include studies on ionic liquid ion sources, ExB probe diagnostics, and optimal control techniques for propulsion mission design. Collaborations span academia and industry, with a focus on advancing small satellite and deep-space propulsion technologies.

Timothy K. MintonView profile

Professor

• Gas-phase and gas-surface reaction dynamics
• Shock layer chemistry in hypersonic flows
• Material degradation in low-Earth-orbital environments
• +3 more

Timothy K. Minton is a Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a member of the Aerospace Mechanics Research Center (AMREC). He holds a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley (1986) and a BS from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (1980). His research focuses on gas-phase and gas-surface reaction dynamics, particularly in hypersonic flow environments and space material degradation. He has held editorial roles at The Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets and The Journal of Physical Chemistry , and has been recognized with prestigious awards including Fellowships from the American Physical Society (2015) and American Association for the Advancement of Science (2012). Dr. Minton’s work emphasizes understanding atomic oxygen interactions with satellite materials, shock layer chemistry, and material durability in low-Earth-orbit environments. His innovations include the development of the Table-Top Shock Tunnel (TTST) for rapid material testing and durable coatings for space applications. He has also contributed to advancing models for carbon oxidation and nitridation processes. His awards highlight leadership in aerospace and chemistry, including the NASA Monetary Award (1995) for semiconductor etching innovations and the Charles & Nora Wiley Award (2002) for meritorious research. He maintains a courtesy appointment in the Department of Chemistry at CU Boulder and actively collaborates with industry (e.g., Skeyeon, Inc.) and international institutions.

Bret WindomView profile

Associate Professor

• Alternative Fuels
• Combustion Dynamics
• Laser Diagnostics
• +3 more

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.