Hyung Sub Sim

Hyung Sub Sim is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Sejong University, South Korea. Since 2022 he has led a research program centered on advanced combustion science, propulsion, and nano-engineered energy materials. His career spans academic, government, and industry roles, including positions at Pennsylvania State University, UCLA, Sandia National Laboratories, and the Agency for Defense Development.

Education

• B.S., Chung-Ang University (2006)
• M.S., Chung-Ang University (2008)
• Ph.D., Pennsylvania State University (2016)

Research Interests

Professor Sim’s research integrates experiment, high-fidelity simulation, and machine learning to advance the fundamental understanding and practical deployment of:

• Combustion and carbon-free energy conversion
• Rocket propulsion and green propellants
• Optical diagnostics for reactive flows
• Nanoengineered energetic and catalytic materials
• Active combustion control strategies

His work leverages state-of-the-art laser diagnostics (PLIF, schlieren) and reactive molecular-dynamics (ReaxFF) simulations to elucidate soot formation, ignition dynamics, and additive-enhanced fuel decomposition under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions.

Publication Trends

Across 31 publications (2013-2025) his output focuses on three dominant themes: (1) nanoparticle-laden hydrocarbon fuels for enhanced combustion and hypersonic propulsion, (2) soot and PAH formation mechanisms studied via high-speed optical diagnostics, and (3) computational materials design using ReaxFF for glass-ceramics, nanowires, and metal–graphene composites. A marked surge in 2020-2025 papers reflects intensified efforts in machine-learning-assisted combustion modeling and additive manufacturing of energetic nanomaterials.

Scientific Awards

• Distinguished Paper Award, 38th International Symposium on Combustion (2022)

Grants & Collaborations

While specific grant numbers are not disclosed, his trajectory indicates sustained funding from Korean and U.S. defense agencies (ADD, Sandia), evidenced by joint publications with Sandia, UCLA, and Penn State teams. International collaborations span South Korea, USA, and Europe, focusing on next-generation propulsion systems and environmentally benign energetic materials.

Laboratory & Teams

At Sejong University he directs a combustion and propulsion laboratory equipped with high-pressure spray chambers, high-speed laser diagnostics, and GPU-accelerated ReaxFF simulation clusters. The group actively collaborates with the Engine Combustion Network (ECN) and maintains partnerships with Agency for Defense Development (ADD) for defense-oriented propulsion research.