معرفی
James Olson is Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Applied Science at the University of British Columbia, where he also serves in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. He previously directed UBC’s Pulp and Paper Centre and held the role of Associate Dean for Research and Industry Partnerships.
- B.A.Sc. and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from UBC
- Member of Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC)
- FP Innovations Professorship recipient (2013)
- Meritorious Achievement Award (APEGBC, 2014)
His research focuses on energy-efficient mechanical pulp materials, turbulent fiber suspensions, and micro-fibrillated cellulose (MFC) applications. He leads a $2+M, 5-year multidisciplinary program to reduce energy consumption in British Columbia’s mechanical pulping sector while enhancing fiber properties.
Recent publications emphasize:
- Screening operations and plugging mechanisms
- Cellulose-mycelium foam for sustainable materials
- Nanocellulose production from hardwood/softwood
- Energy analysis of refiner processes
- Fiber fractionation and reinforcement techniques
Scientific Awards:
- NSERC Synergy Awards
- Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Innovation (2008)
- Van den Akker Gold Medal (2009)
- Best Paper Awards
As Dean, he has expanded research funding to $99.8 million and initiated Canada’s first purpose-built biomedical engineering facility. His work bridges fluid mechanics, machine design, and material science to advance sustainable forest bio-products.
