Kara Maki

Kara Maki is a Professor in the School of Mathematics and Statistics at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), serving as Director of the Applied and Computational Mathematics MS Program. She holds a BS from the University of New Hampshire and MS and PhD degrees from the University of Delaware. Her research focuses on mathematical modeling of fluid dynamics, particularly tear film dynamics, droplet evaporation, and interfacial phenomena. She has contributed to understanding biological systems like ocular surfaces and respiratory models, as well as engineering applications in microfluidics and materials science.

Dr. Maki teaches advanced courses such as Mathematical Modeling I & II, Differential Equations, and supervises graduate research through capstone and thesis programs. Her work bridges applied mathematics with interdisciplinary fields, including collaborations on tear film mechanics, nanoparticle behavior, and viral infection modeling. She actively engages in educational outreach through programs like the SMASH Experience for Girls, promoting STEM education for underrepresented groups.

Her publications span topics from evaporation-driven flows to contact lens mechanics, with notable contributions to the Journal of Engineering Mathematics, Journal of Aerosol Science, and Langmuir. While no formal awards are listed, her research has garnered attention for its practical implications in healthcare and engineering. Ongoing projects include computational modeling of biological systems and the development of low-cost microfluidic devices.