Jun Kojima

Jun Kojima is a Research Associate Professor at the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case School of Engineering, Case Western Reserve University. His research focuses on advanced optical diagnostics and thermal fluids science, particularly in aero-propulsion and low-gravity exploration. He holds a PhD in Environmental Energy from Kobe University (2000), a Master of Arts in Laser Velocimetry (1997), and a Bachelor of Arts in Thermal Fluids (1995), all from Kobe University.

Research Interests:

• Combustion diagnostics, including Raman spectroscopy and chemiluminescence analysis
• Microgravity fluid physics and supercritical water oxidation
• Laser pulse manipulation and optical sensor development
• Extreme environment gas sensing and optical communications
• High-pressure combustion systems and aero/space propulsion

Awards and Honors:

• Recipient of NASA Exceptional Space Act Award (2014) for NOCARS technology
• R&D100 Award (2011) for laser pulse-stretching innovations
• Multiple NASA Invention of the Year and Space Act Awards for contributions to combustion diagnostics
• Invited to SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket launch (2019) for Green Propellant Infusion Mission work

Publications:

His recent work includes studies on supercritical ethanol/water combustion, high-pressure swirl-stabilized combustion, and laser-based diagnostics for turbulent flames. Themes revolve around advancing combustion science through optical techniques and addressing challenges in extreme environments.

Other Roles:

• On-site contractor at NASA Glenn Research Center since 2001
• Contributor to NASA-funded projects and industry collaborations

Labs/Teams:

His research aligns with aerospace propulsion and thermal-fluids labs at Case School of Engineering and NASA partnerships.