Francisco Cunha

Francisco Cunha serves as Professor of Practice in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where he teaches advanced mechanical engineering courses and advises Rensselaer at Work Master of Engineering students while serving on the RPI senate committee.

His academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from New York University (1995)
• M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from New Jersey Institute of Technology (1983)
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from New Jersey Institute of Technology (1979)

Professor Cunha's research integrates industrial power systems expertise with academic inquiry, focusing on Turbomachinery Development, Thermal-Mechanical Fatigue analysis, and advanced Heat Transfer applications. His work bridges theoretical fluid/solid mechanics with practical energy system design, particularly in gas turbine technology and combined-cycle power generation.

His professional recognitions include:

• Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
• Holder of over 100 U.S. Patents in Gas Turbine Technology
• Member of Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society

As academic advisor for Rensselaer at Work engineering students, he provides specialized mentorship in mechanical engineering applications, leveraging his 30+ years of industry experience at leading aerospace and power generation firms to guide professional development.