Daniel I. Pineda

Dr. Daniel I. Pineda is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), affiliated with the Margie and Bill Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design. His research focuses on spectroscopy and optically-based sensor development for aerospace and energy systems.

• Education: B.S. from The University of Texas at Austin, Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (Combustion) from the University of California, Berkeley, and postdoctoral work at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Prof. Pineda’s research explores laser absorption spectroscopy, chemical kinetics of ignition, fuel reformation, and fire toxicant formation using advanced propulsion and energy conversion systems. His lab emphasizes uncertainty quantification in experimental and modeling approaches.

His recent work includes mid-wave infrared sensors for nitrogen oxides, additive manufacturing for detonation engines, and calibration-free spectroscopy for Martian methane monitoring. Trends in his publications reflect expertise in rotating detonation combustion, high-temperature spectroscopy, and environmental sensing.

• Awards: National Science Foundation CAREER Award.

Dr. Pineda mentors graduate students in aerospace and energy research, integrating thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and applied optics. His lab develops diagnostics for hypersonic testing and propulsion systems.