Gene Hou

Gene Hou is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering at Old Dominion University (ODU), Batten College of Engineering and Technology. He joined ODU in 1983 and was promoted to full Professor in 1996. His research focuses on computational mechanics, multibody dynamics, and design under uncertainty, with applications in structural optimization, aeroelasticity, and CFD. He has led numerous grants totaling over $5.5 million in funding, including scholarships for marine engineering students and studies on fluid-structure interaction.

Education: Ph.D. (Mechanical Engineering, University of Iowa, 1982), M.S. (Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University, 1976), B.S. (Mechanical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, 1974).

Research Highlights: Dr. Hou’s work spans design optimization, sensitivity analysis, and multidisciplinary applications. Recent projects include robust design of MEMS resonators, dynamic environment simulation laboratories, and AHP-based decision methodologies. Key technologies include discontinuous Galerkin methods, partitioned FSI algorithms, and reliability-based design frameworks.

Articles Overview: Recent works emphasize fluid-structure interaction (FSI), reliability analysis, and educational innovations. Notable trends include partitioned computational approaches, stochastic modeling for structural systems, and pedagogical methods for technical disciplines.

Awards: Includes the 1995 Ralph R. Teetor Educational Award, 1987 ASME Outstanding Faculty Award, and 1986 NSF Presidential Young Investigator Award.

Grants & Labs: Over 50 grants funded projects on topics like friction stir welding, naval craft dynamics, and orthotic systems. Active involvement in capstone design projects for autonomous surface vehicles and marine engineering education.