David Rothamer

David Rothamer is the Robert Lorenz Professor and Director of the Engine Research Center in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. As Associate Dean for Research in the College of Engineering, he leads research strategy, core facility management, and faculty recruitment. His expertise spans combustion, internal combustion engines, renewable fuels, and optical diagnostics. He earned his PhD from Stanford University (2008) and has been at UW-Madison since 2008, receiving an NSF CAREER Award in 2011.

Education

• PhD, Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, 2008
• MS & BS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2002 & 2000

Research Interests

Rothamer’s work focuses on optimizing engine performance with renewable fuels using advanced optical diagnostics. His lab develops laser-based techniques to study combustion processes in IC engines, with recent emphasis on sustainable aviation fuels and aerosol filtration during the pandemic.

Awards & Recognition

• ASHRAE Best Paper Award (2022) for aerosol transmission research
• Robert Lorenz Professorship (2020)
• SAE Ralph R. Teetor Educational Award (2013)

Grants & Collaborations

Recipient of $11.5M Army funding for hybrid-electric engine research (2020). Collaborates with industry partners on fuel blending, combustion diagnostics, and emission reduction technologies.

Labs & Affiliations

Leads the Engine Research Center and holds an affiliation with the Nuclear Engineering & Engineering Physics department. His team operates a state-of-the-art engine lab capable of simulating extreme environmental conditions.