David L. Burris

Dr. David L. Burris is an Associate Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Delaware, College of Engineering. He holds a PhD and BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida. His research focuses on materials tribology, particularly in space lubrication, joint disease prevention, and wind turbine reliability. He leads the Materials Tribology Laboratory and has been recognized with awards such as the 2009 AFOSR Young Investigator Award and the 2011 University of Florida Outstanding Young Alumnus Award.

Education:

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, University of Florida (2007)
• BS in Mechanical Engineering, University of Florida

Research Interests:

• Biomechanical Engineering: Investigating cartilage lubrication and tribology for joint health.
• Clean Energy: Developing wear-resistant materials for wind turbine drivetrains.
• Nanotechnology: Exploring nanocomposites and surface engineering for low-wear polymers.

Publications: Dr. Burris has published extensively on cartilage biomechanics, tribological rehydration, and polymer nanocomposites. Recent work emphasizes the interplay between mechanical activity and cartilage function, as well as novel lubrication strategies for aerospace and biomedical applications.

Awards:

• 2009 AFOSR Young Investigator Award
• 2008 ASME Marshall B. Peterson Award
• 2009 STLE Walter D. Hodson Award
• 2010 ASME Pi Tau Sigma Gold Medal
• 2011 University of Florida Outstanding Young Alumnus Award

Advising & Grants:** Dr. Burris has secured patents in polymer nanocomposites and lubrication strategies. His work bridges fundamental tribology research with translational applications in biomedical devices and renewable energy systems.

Labs/Teams:** Director of the Materials Tribology Laboratory, collaborating on interdisciplinary projects in biomaterials and advanced manufacturing.