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Dr. Gregory E. Hilmas is a Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. He joined the department in 1998 and has held progressively senior roles, including Curators' Distinguished Professor (2012). BS in Materials Science and Engineering, University of Minnesota (1986) MS in Ceramic Engineering, The Ohio State University (1989) PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan (1993) His research focuses on processing-microstructure-property relationships in structural ceramics , particularly ultra-high temperature ceramics like transition metal carbides, nitrides, and diborides. He specializes in novel fabrication techniques for fibrous monolithic ceramics, multilayered ceramics, hierarchically structured ceramics, and ceramic composites. Dr. Hilmas has been recognized for excellence in teaching, receiving numerous awards including 14 campus-wide Outstanding Teaching Awards, 3 Sustained Excellence in Teaching Awards, and 10 consecutive Faculty Excellence Awards from Missouri S&T. He is also a Fellow of the American Ceramic Society and has contributed significantly to ceramic science through leadership roles in ACerS committees and boards. With over $20 million in research grants from 20+ agencies/companies, he holds 11 U.S. patents (3 pending) and has authored more than 200 journal and proceedings papers. He is affiliated with the Innovative Smart & Additive Manufacturing (ISAM) Laboratory and provides consulting services in ceramic processing and material properties.

• Structural Ceramics
• Ultra-High Temperature Ceramics
• Ceramic Processing
• +4 more

Bridget R Rogers is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Vanderbilt University's School of Engineering. Her research focuses on surfaces, interfaces, and films of advanced materials, linking processing parameters to material properties and performance in applications like CMOS transistors, hypersonic flight composites, and harsh-environment coatings. Education: Ph.D., Chemical Engineering, Arizona State University M.S., Chemical Engineering, Arizona State University B.S., Chemical Engineering, University of Colorado Research Interests: Her work employs techniques such as UHV-CVD, spectroscopic ellipsometry, and ion beam backscattering to study thin films of alumina/zirconia for dielectrics and ultra-high-temperature ceramics (e.g., Hf(Zr)B₂/SiC) for hypersonic systems. Applications target aerospace and electronics sectors. Labs/Equipment: Utilizes specialized facilities including a UHV-CVD reactor, TEM for cross-sectional analysis, and x-ray diffraction systems.

• Materials Science
• Thin Film Engineering
• Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
• +3 more

Dr. Daniel Oropeza is an Assistant Professor in the Materials Department at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), within the College of Engineering. His research focuses on advancing materials and manufacturing technologies for aerospace systems and extreme environments, emphasizing process-microstructure-property relationships. He leads the Materials and Manufacturing for Aerospace and Extremes (MMAX) Lab, which develops novel techniques for powder synthesis, additive manufacturing, and ceramic processing. Education: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (MIT, 2021) M.S. in Aeronautics and Astronautics (Stanford, 2014) B.S. in Aerospace Engineering (UT Austin, 2012) Research Interests: His work spans powder synthesis (e.g., ultrasonic atomization of refractory alloys), additive manufacturing (porous materials, reactive binder jetting), and functional ceramics for applications in hypersonics, space propulsion, and robotics. The MMAX Lab integrates material science, mechanical engineering, and advanced manufacturing testbeds to enable responsive manufacturing solutions. Awards & Grants: LLNL Early Career UC Faculty Initiative Award (2024) Global Young Investigator Award (ACerS, 2025) ONR Grant for Ultrasonic Atomization Research (2024) CNSI Challenge Grant for UC M 2 ADE Consortium (2024) Advising & Labs: He mentors a team of graduate and undergraduate students in the MMAX Lab, focusing on projects like NASA-funded research on refractory metal alloys for space propulsion. The lab collaborates with national labs (e.g., LLNL) and industry partners to bridge fundamental research and applied technologies. Labs/Teams: MMAX Lab develops custom equipment for powder bed fusion, nanoparticle jetting, and reactive binder jetting systems. Current projects include ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs) for extreme environments and multi-material manufacturing for defense and energy applications.

• Additive Manufacturing
• Materials Science
• Aerospace Engineering
• +7 more

Abdeldjelil Belarbi is the Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen Distinguished Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering. He holds fellowships from the American Concrete Institute (ACI), Structural Engineering Institute (SEI), American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), and other leading organizations. His academic career spans over three decades, including roles as Department Chair (2009–2013) and faculty positions at the University of Missouri-Rolla (now Missouri S&T), where he contributed to research centers like the Intelligent Systems Center and Materials Research Graduate Center. Belarbi’s education includes a Ph.D. (1991) and M.S. (1986) in Civil/Structural Engineering from the University of Houston, and a B.S. (1983) from the University of Sciences and Technology of Oran, Algeria. His research focuses on sustainable infrastructure, corrosion-resistant materials, FRP-reinforced concrete, and seismic resilience. He has pioneered studies on prestressed concrete girders, bridge pile repair, and shape memory alloy confinement for columns. His 150+ publications emphasize FRP applications, structural durability, and innovative repair techniques. Awards include the Cullen Distinguished Professorship and recognition as a Fellow in multiple engineering societies. Belarbi has advised numerous students and led interdisciplinary projects on infrastructure sustainability and advanced materials. Awards: Cullen Distinguished Professorship, ACI Fellow, ASCE Fellow, IIFC Fellow Key Research: FRP-reinforced concrete, corrosion-resistant steels, bridge retrofitting, shape memory alloys Leadership: Department Chair (UH), Dean’s Teaching Scholar (MU-Rolla)

• Structural Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Materials Science
• +7 more

Mehdi Kabir is an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Alfred University, affiliated with the Engineering Laboratories . His work focuses on advanced thermal management, additive manufacturing, and sustainable energy systems. Research Interests: Multi-Scale Multi-Phase Heat Transfer Thermal Management for High-Heat Flux Electronics and Space Applications Additive Manufacturing (DMLS, SLM, SLS techniques) Smart Coatings and Ultra-High-Temperature Materials Solar-Thermal and Geothermal Energy Systems Electrochemical Energy Storage (LIBs) No publications or awards are explicitly listed in the provided text. He is part of the Engineering Laboratories at Alfred University.

• Multi-Scale Multi-Phase Heat Transfer
• Thermal Energy Transport
• Thermal Management Systems for Electronics and Space Applications
• +4 more

Erica L. Corral is a Professor in the Materials Science and Engineering Department at the University of Arizona, with joint appointments in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering. She serves as Co-Director for the Arizona Research Center for Hypersonics and the University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics (UCAH), and directs the High Temperature Testing Laboratory. Recognized as a University Distinguished Scholar, she specializes in ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs) for hypersonic applications and extreme environments. Education: PhD in Materials Science from Rice University (2005), BS in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering from University of Texas at El Paso (2000) Her research focuses on advanced processing, mechanical/thermal properties, and behavior of UHTC composites under high-enthalpy flows. She has authored 27 publications, 2 book chapters, holds 3 licensed patents, and 7 patent applications. Corral actively contributes to industry engagement through UCAH governance roles. Scientific Honors: University Distinguished Scholar, UCAH leadership roles The Corral Laboratory at the University of Arizona develops innovative high-temperature resistant materials, collaborating with national laboratories and industry partners.

• Ultra-High Temperature Ceramics (UHTCs)
• Hypersonic Applications
• Ceramic Processing
• +3 more

Jenn-Ming Yang is a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), holding the Collins Aerospace Term Chair for Excellence. His work focuses on advanced composite materials for aerospace and transportation applications, with significant contributions to high-temperature material systems. Professor Yang's research centers on fundamental problems in processing, microstructure development, and mechanical behavior of high-temperature composites. His investigations target critical applications in aerospace structural systems and ground transportation, with emphasis on material durability, failure mechanisms, and performance under extreme conditions. This work bridges materials science, mechanical engineering, and aerospace engineering through experimental and analytical approaches. His recent publications (2007-2008) reveal a concentrated focus on composite material systems, including titanium-based laminates, carbon nanotube reinforcements, ultra-incompressible transition metal diborides, and ceramic composites. Key research themes involve mechanical property characterization, failure analysis, and microstructure-property relationships, with direct applications to aircraft structures, propulsion systems, and energy storage technologies. Professor Yang's scientific achievements have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards: Scholars Award from National Engineering Research Center for Composite Manufacturing Science & Engineering (1987) Faculty Career Development Award (1989) Presidential Young Investigator Award from the National Science Foundation (1990-1995) Alcoa Foundation Award (1992) Ford Foundation Award (1993) Best Paper Award from the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers (2007) His research program addresses critical challenges in advanced material systems for next-generation aerospace and transportation applications, with ongoing investigations into novel composite architectures and high-temperature material solutions.

• Composite Materials
• High-Temperature Materials
• Aerospace Structural Applications
• +3 more

Jihua Gou serves as Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator at the University of Central Florida, leading the Composite Materials and Structures Lab with research spanning aerospace, biomedical, and energy applications. His work bridges fundamental material science with industrial implementation through NASA collaborations and industry partnerships. His academic foundation includes: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Materials Engineering from Chongqing University (1993, 1996) Ph.D. in Materials Engineering from Shanghai Jiao Tong University (1999) Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from Florida State University (2002) Professor Gou's research centers on composite materials and structures , nanocomposite materials , multi-functional coatings , and advanced manufacturing processes . His lab pioneers machine learning integration for predicting material behavior in extreme environments, develops tissue-mimicking hydrogels for medical applications, and creates hydrogen-resistant coatings critical for space exploration. Recent breakthroughs include materials preventing hydrogen leaks in NASA's Artemis program and high-temperature coatings for turbine systems. Analysis of his 2020-2025 publications reveals three dominant research thrusts: (1) AI-driven modeling of ceramic composites for hypersonic applications, (2) biomimetic hydrogel development for lung tissue equivalence, and (3) nanotechnology-enhanced manufacturing for multifunctional composites. These intersect at the crossroads of materials informatics, sustainable manufacturing, and extreme-environment performance. His scientific recognition includes: UCF CECS Distinguished Researcher Award (2012) Best Paper Award, American Society of Civil Engineers (2010) Best Poster Award, American Ceramic Society (2014) UCF Teaching Incentive Program Award (2017) As Graduate Program Coordinator, Professor Gou mentors doctoral candidates in materials engineering and secures significant research funding through NASA partnerships and UCF initiatives. His lab currently directs projects on hydrogen infrastructure materials, thermal protection systems for hypersonic vehicles, and 3D-printed smart composites with self-healing capabilities. The Composite Materials and Structures Lab maintains specialized facilities for nanocomposite synthesis, in-situ characterization, and extreme-condition testing. Current team efforts include developing carbon nanotube-reinforced coatings for spacecraft, machine learning frameworks for ablation prediction, and biodegradable hydrogels for medical implants, positioning the lab at the forefront of next-generation material solutions.

• Composite Materials
• Nanocomposites
• Advanced Manufacturing
• +3 more

Dr. Marina B. Ruggles-Wrenn is a Professor in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), where she teaches graduate courses and directs research in mechanics of materials and structures. She is a leading expert in experimental mechanics of advanced materials under extreme environments, particularly high-temperature ceramic matrix composites. University: Air Force Institute of Technology School: Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics Academic Rank: Professor Education: PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1987 MS in Mechanics, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1983 BS in Mechanical Engineering, Polytechnic Institute of New York, 1981 Dr. Ruggles-Wrenn's research focuses on the mechanical behavior of composite materials at elevated temperatures, especially under creep, fatigue, and oxidative environments. Her work has major implications for aerospace propulsion systems, thermal protection, and hypersonic vehicle design. She investigates material degradation in steam and air environments, interlaminar shear, environmental barrier coatings, and self-healing matrices in SiC and oxide-oxide composites. Her research integrates experimental mechanics with modeling of viscoplastic and time-dependent deformation. The 15 most recent publications reveal a sustained focus on high-temperature materials, particularly ceramic matrix composites (CMCs), with recurring themes in environmental degradation (especially steam), creep, fatigue, oxidation, and microstructural evolution. The subfields span subcritical crack growth, environmental barrier coatings, self-healing matrices, and the effects of fiber architecture and matrix composition on performance under extreme conditions. Scientific Awards and Honors: Distinguished Professor Award, 2023 Fellow, International Association for Advanced Materials, 2022 Dean’s Distinguished Teaching Professor Award, 2019 Plenary Lecture, HT-CMC10, 2019 ASME Dedicated Service Award, 2016 ASME Board of Governors Award, 2016 Stinson Trophy, National Aeronautic Association, 2014 Best Paper Award – ASME Turbo Expo, 2012 Col. Gage H. Crocker Outstanding Professor Award, 2007 Multiple Oak Ridge National Laboratory Technical Achievement Awards (1990, 1993, 2003) Dr. Ruggles-Wrenn has advised numerous graduate students in aerospace engineering and materials science, directing research in experimental mechanics and high-temperature materials. Her work has been supported by extensive research grants from the U.S. Air Force, Department of Defense, and national laboratories. She has published over 200 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. Her leadership in the field is further reflected in her status as a Fellow of ASME and the International Association for Advanced Materials. She is actively involved in collaborative research with institutions such as Oak Ridge National Laboratory and contributes to national efforts in advancing durable materials for aerospace applications. Her laboratory focuses on high-temperature mechanical testing, environmental exposure studies, and microstructural characterization of advanced ceramics and composites.

• Mechanics of Materials
• Structural Engineering
• Composite Materials
• +7 more

John S. McCloy is a Full Professor and Director at Washington State University's School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering , with affiliate appointments in Chemistry. His career spans academia and national laboratories, including leadership roles at the Institute for Materials Research and prior research at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering (University of Arizona, 2008) M.S. in Materials Science & Engineering (University of Arizona, 2007) M.A. in Cultural Anthropology (University of Arizona, 2004) B.S. in Materials Science & Engineering (MIT, 1996) McCloy's research integrates nuclear materials , wide bandgap semiconductors , and advanced characterization techniques . His work on β-Ga2O3 explores optical anisotropy, defect engineering, and radiation effects. He also investigates glass and ceramic waste forms for radioactive iodine and technetium, combining materials informatics with positron annihilation spectroscopy . Current projects include dual-phase ceramics and ultra-wide bandgap devices . Recent publications analyze molten salt thermodynamics , chromium-doped oxide semiconductors , and archaeological glass alteration as analogs for nuclear waste durability. His lab develops in-situ characterization methods using X-ray nano-CT and laser-induced luminescence . Scientific Recognition : 2024 Washington State Academy of Sciences 2019 Fulbright Scholar 2018 Fellow of the American Ceramic Society 2016 Outstanding Teaching Award

• Nuclear materials
• Functional materials (optical, magnetic, electronic)
• Material degradation: ceramics, glasses, metals
• +4 more

Stefano Curtarolo is the Edmund T. Pratt Jr. School Distinguished Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science at Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering. He also holds professorships in the Department of Physics and Electrical and Computer Engineering, and serves as Director of the Center for Extreme Materials (2025–present). Education: M.S. in Physics, University of Padua (1995, 1998) M.S. in Physics, Pennsylvania State University (1999) Sc.D. in Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2003) Research Interests: Curtarolo’s work bridges Materials Science , Physics , and Artificial Intelligence , focusing on Autonomous Materials Design , High-Entropy Disordered Systems , and Materials for Extreme Environments . His methodologies integrate Quantum Mechanics , Machine Learning , and High-Throughput Computing . Recent Research Trends: His 2024–2025 publications highlight advancements in High-Entropy Ceramics , including Soliquidy (a geometric descriptor for disorder), Dual-Phase Ceramic Synthesis , and Machine Learning Interatomic Potentials . These works emphasize disorder engineering , plasticity enhancement , and AI-driven material discovery for Aerospace and Deep Space Exploration applications. Scientific Awards: European Academy of Sciences (2024) Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher (2021) Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award (2016) DOD MURI Awards (2013, 2015) NSF CAREER (2008) ONR Young Investigator (2008) PECASE (2007) Grants & Leadership: Current projects include DETER (2024–2027, Missouri S&T) and Transition States Algorithms (2024–2027, ONR). He co-leads NRT-HDR (2020–2026, NSF). Labs & Teams: Curtarolo directs the Center for Extreme Materials and leads the AFLOW consortium , a global materials design ecosystem. His lab combines machine learning , quantum simulations , and experimental validation for multiscale materials discovery .

• Artificial Intelligence Materials Science
• Autonomous Materials Design
• Computational Materials Science
• +4 more

Rajendra K. Bordia is the George J. Bishop, III Chair Professor of Ceramics and Materials Engineering at Clemson University, where he previously served as Department Chair (2013–2019). He holds a B.Tech. from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (1979), and M.S. and Ph.D. in Materials Science from Cornell University (1981, 1986). His research focuses on ceramics for energy, environmental, and medical applications, emphasizing sintering science, porous materials, and advanced composites. With over 170 publications and $40M in research funding, he is a Fellow of the American Ceramic Society and recipient of the Humboldt Research Award (2007) and Outstanding Educator Award (2012). Education: B.Tech., Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (1979) M.S., Materials Science and Engineering, Cornell University (1981) Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering (minor in Solid Mechanics), Cornell University (1986) Research Interests: Ceramics for extreme environments and energy storage Nano/microstructure control in ceramics Porous and multilayered ceramic systems Polymers-derived ceramics and composites Professional Roles: Editor-in-Chief, Ceramics International Board Member, American Ceramic Society Academician, World Academy of Ceramics Awards Highlight: His recognition spans academic leadership (Marsha L. Landolt Graduate Mentor Award, 2007) and technical excellence (McQueen Quattlebaum Award, 2020).

• Ceramics
• Energy Storage Materials
• Advanced Materials Processing
• +7 more

Chang Liu is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Economics, Stony Brook University. He specializes in advanced microscopy techniques and nanoscale material characterization, with a focus on plasmonics, 2D materials, and quantum phenomena. His research employs cutting-edge tools like scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM) and terahertz spectroscopy to explore electronic and optical properties at the nanoscale. His work spans interdisciplinary areas including graphene heterostructures, Dirac materials, and phase transitions in correlated oxides. Liu’s contributions include developing novel imaging modalities (e.g., BOSON) and advancing understanding of polaritonic systems. He collaborates with synchrotron facilities like NSLS-II for ultra-high resolution studies. Notable research trends include exploring nanoscale structural phase separations, tunable phonon polaritons in van der Waals heterostructures, and nano-photocurrent dynamics in twisted bilayer systems. His technical innovations, such as machine learning for nano-optical data analysis and cryogenic s-SNOM setups, enhance experimental precision. Liu’s lab is part of the Stony Brook Center for Game Theory, though his direct research themes focus on materials physics. Current projects include roadmap development for 2D material photonics and exploring moiré ferroelectricity in twisted WSe₂ systems. No awards or grants are explicitly listed in the provided materials.

• Nanotechnology
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• +3 more

Dr. Carolina Tallon is an Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). She leads the Tallon Research Group, focusing on advanced ceramic materials for extreme environments. Her work emphasizes colloidal processing techniques, near-net-shaping methods, and modeling of materials properties. Education: B.E. in Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Granada, Spain Ph.D. in Chemistry (joint program), Universidad Autonoma de Madrid & Institute of Ceramics and Glass (CSIC) Research Interests: Ceramics Processing Ultra-High Temperature Ceramics (UHTCs) Multi-Scale Porous Materials Near-Net-Shaping Techniques Surface Science & Rheology Materials Properties Modeling Recent Research Trends: Dr. Tallon's work highlights innovative methods to fabricate complex ceramic geometries with controlled microstructures. Key areas include optimizing solvent systems for UHTC shaping, developing HERO coatings for refractory alloys, and simulating thermomechanical behavior of porous ceramics under extreme conditions. Awards: Jubilee Global Diversity Award (ACerS Engineering Ceramics Division, 2020) Advising & Grants: Supervises graduate students like Sydney Hulse and Hui-Chun (June) Yu. Active in securing grants, including a 2021 award for additive manufacturing infrastructure. Collaborates on projects involving cellulose nanomaterials and laser powder bed fusion. Labs & Facilities: Leads the Tallon Research Lab at Virginia Tech, equipped for advanced ceramic processing, thermal analysis, and microstructural characterization. Engages in outreach to promote STEM education and sustainable manufacturing practices.

• Ceramics Processing
• Colloidal Processing
• Surface Science
• +5 more

Dr. Gregory B. Thompson is a Distinguished University Research Professor in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at The University of Alabama, College of Engineering. He serves as Executive Director of the Alabama Materials Institute and Director of the Central Analytical Facility, demonstrating significant leadership in materials research and infrastructure. He has been a faculty member since 2003, achieving tenure in 2008 and full professorship in 2012. Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering, Ohio State University, 2003 M.S., Materials Science and Engineering, Ohio State University, 1998 B.S., Physics, Brigham Young University, 1996 Dr. Thompson’s research focuses on understanding the interplay between material structure, phase transformations, and mechanical properties. He specializes in advanced characterization techniques, particularly atom probe tomography and electron microscopy, to study nanocrystalline metals, ceramics, shape memory alloys, and thin films. His work has significant implications for high-temperature materials, aerospace applications, and materials processing. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in utilizing atom probe tomography for nanoscale solute mapping, grain boundary segregation, and phase stability analysis in advanced metallic and ceramic systems. His research spans fundamental thermodynamics of phase transformations to applied mechanical behavior under extreme conditions, particularly in ultra-high temperature ceramics and sputter-deposited films. Dr. Thompson has received numerous honors for his scholarly and leadership contributions: Fellow, International Field Emission Society Brimacombe Medalist, TMS (2017) University Distinguished Research Professor (2018) Blackmon-Moody Outstanding Professor Award (2014) T. Morris Hackney Leadership Award (2018) NSF CAREER Award (2005) He has secured over $12 million in research funding from NSF, ARO, ARL, ONR, AFOSR, DOE, NASA, and industrial partners. Dr. Thompson has mentored at least 29 doctoral students to graduation and numerous master's students. His leadership includes directing the interdisciplinary doctoral program in materials science, where enrollment quadrupled under his tenure, and organizing major international conferences such as the 53rd International Field Emission Symposium. Dr. Thompson leads the Thompson Research Group, which operates within the Central Analytical Facility and collaborates extensively with national laboratories including Sandia, Air Force Research Laboratory, and Dynetics. The group utilizes state-of-the-art instrumentation for in situ mechanical and thermal testing in electron microscopes and advanced atom probe systems.

• Materials Characterization
• Atom Probe Tomography
• Electron Microscopy
• +12 more