Azer P. Yalin

Dr. Azer P. Yalin is a Full Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Colorado State University (CSU), affiliated with the Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering. He leads the Center for Laser Sensing and Diagnostics and directs the CSU NASA Space Grant program. His research focuses on laser-based diagnostics for plasmas, combustion, and environmental sensing, with applications in plasma propulsion and trace gas measurements.

Education: PhD (2000) and MA (1997) in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering from Princeton University; B.S. (1995) in Engineering Physics from Queen’s University. He held a postdoctoral position at Stanford University (2000–2002).

Research interests include laser diagnostics of plasmas, combustion processes, and environmental trace gases like CH4 and NH3. His work bridges fundamental plasma physics and engineering applications, such as Hall thrusters and laser ignition systems.

Key achievements include the 2019 AIAA Plasmadynamics Award and multiple invited lectures. His articles span plasma dynamics, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, and cavity ring-down sensing. He advises students in the Laser Plasma Diagnostics Laboratory and collaborates on NASA-funded projects.

Labs/Teams: Director of the Center for Laser Sensing and Diagnostics and Laser Plasma Diagnostics Laboratory (LPDL), collaborating on projects like the JANUS propulsion initiative. His work integrates advanced diagnostics with aerospace and environmental engineering challenges.