معرفی
Jian Cao is the Cardiss Collins Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering, with courtesy appointments in Civil Engineering and Materials Science. She serves as Director of the Northwestern Initiative for Manufacturing Science and Innovation (NIMSI) and Associate Vice President for Research. Her education includes a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from MIT and a BS from Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
Professor Cao leads pioneering research in manufacturing systems, focusing on deformation-based processes, laser additive/subtractive technologies, and AI-driven manufacturing innovations. Her work integrates material behavior characterization, computational modeling, and machine learning to advance energy-efficient manufacturing and surface engineering. Recent publications demonstrate strong emphasis on AI-accelerated simulations, real-time process control, and multi-material systems for additive manufacturing.
Recognized with elite honors including membership in both the National Academy of Engineering and American Academy of Arts & Sciences, her scientific awards span:
- ASME DeVor-Kapoor Manufacturing Medal (2023)
- Vannevar Bush Faculty Fellowship (2019)
- SME Gold Medal (2020)
- Frederick W. Taylor Research Medal (2016)
She directs the Cao Research Group developing novel manufacturing equipment and leads NIMSI's industry-academic partnerships. Her professional service includes editorial roles for leading journals and leadership positions in ASME/SME manufacturing divisions.
