Arif Malik

Dr. Arif Malik is an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) since 2015 and Director of the Center for Computational Research and Advanced Manufacturing (CRAM). He holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Wright State University (2007) and has extensive industry experience, including roles in process engineering and co-founding a manufacturing software startup. His research focuses on computational mechanics for advanced manufacturing, uncertainty analysis, and reliability-based design optimization, with notable contributions in laser shock peening, additive manufacturing, and fluid-structure interaction.

Education:

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Wright State University (2007)
• MS in Electrical Engineering, Wright State University (2001)
• BS in Mechanical Engineering, Wright State University (1994)

Research Interests:

• Computational modeling for advanced manufacturing processes
• Residual stress analysis and laser-based surface engineering
• Uncertainty quantification in manufacturing systems
• Fluid-structure interaction in micro-air-vehicle wing design

Awards:

• NSF CAREER Award (2015)
• Best Organizer of ASME Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conferences (2013, 2015)
• Air Force Research Lab Summer Faculty Fellowship (2010–2015)

Labs/Teams: Director of CRAM, which focuses on computational modeling and experimental validation for advanced manufacturing, laser processing, and bio-inspired fluid-structure interaction. Engages undergraduate and graduate researchers in projects like Engineering Brighter Futures for Autism, combining 3D printing with community outreach.