Hossein Haj-Hariri

Hossein Haj-Hariri is the Dean of the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing at the University of South Carolina (since 2016) and holds the title of USC Educational Foundation Distinguished Professor. Previously, he spent 27 years at the University of Virginia, serving as Chair of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (2005–2015) and co-Director of the K-12 Engineering Design Laboratory. He earned his Ph.D., S.M., and S.B. in Mechanical and Civil Engineering from MIT.

His research focuses on computational and theoretical applied mechanics, including fluid mechanics of swimming, thermal management systems, and interfacial phenomena. He has secured over $30M in research funding, published over 100 papers, and holds patents in thermal management and carbon-fiber composites. Key areas of expertise include aero-acoustics, hydrodynamic stability, and fluid-structure interactions.

• Education:
  • S.B. in Civil Engineering, MIT
  • S.M. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (Applied Mechanics), MIT

His work bridges fundamental science and applied engineering, with recent emphasis on biomimetic robotics (e.g., manta ray-inspired designs) and high-heat-flux thermal systems. He has mentored over 35 researchers and 50+ undergraduates.

• Awards:
  • USC Educational Foundation Distinguished Professor

Grants and leadership: Spearheaded strategic initiatives to advance engineering education and research at USC. His lab collaborations include projects on microfluidics, flow control, and sustainable energy systems.

Current initiatives focus on transforming healthcare through engineering innovation, advanced manufacturing, and smart infrastructure.