Heather Liddell

Heather Liddell is an Assistant Professor at Purdue University with joint appointments in Mechanical Engineering and Environmental & Ecological Engineering. She leads the Liddell Research Group, focusing on sustainable manufacturing, environmental life cycle assessment, and mechanics of multilayered systems. Her work bridges engineering and policy, addressing industrial decarbonization and sustainable supply chains. She holds a PhD in Materials Science from the University of Rochester, postdoctoral training at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, and prior DOE contract experience.

Education: PhD (2013, Materials Science, University of Rochester), MS (2010, Mechanical Engineering, University of Rochester), BS (2008, Mechanical Engineering, University of Rochester).

Research Interests:

• Industrial decarbonization strategies and circular economy frameworks
• Fracture mechanics in multilayer systems (e.g., coatings, composites)
• Environmental LCA of emerging technologies
• Lightweighting strategies for transportation sectors

Awards include the 2024 EnergyTech Prize, ASEE Postdoctoral Fellowship (2017), and multiple Above and Beyond Awards. Her group includes 9 researchers studying topics like EEIO modeling, adhesion in lithium-ion batteries, and dairy forage drying LCA.

Lab activities emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, with projects funded by DOE and industry partnerships. Recent work addresses carbon performance reporting in Industry 4.0 and rebound effects in decarbonization initiatives.