Kishan Bellur

Dr. Kishan Bellur is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical & Materials Engineering at the University of Cincinnati, leading the UC Lab for Interfacial Dynamics (UCLID). His expertise spans liquid-vapor phase change phenomena, cryogenic thermophysics, and multi-scale modeling. He holds a PhD from Michigan Technological University (2018) and postdoctoral training at Michigan Tech and the University of Michigan.

Education:

• PhD: Mechanical Engineering - Engineering Mechanics, Michigan Technological University (2018)
• MS: Mechanical Engineering, Michigan Technological University (2016)
• BS: Mechanical Engineering, Milwaukee School of Engineering (2013)

Research Interests: Focuses on micro-/nano-scale transport phenomena, cryogenic heat transfer, reduced-gravity fluid dynamics, and interfacial instabilities. Utilizes experimental methods (neutron imaging, interferometry) and computational tools (CFD, molecular dynamics) to study phase change dynamics.

Awards:

• NSF CAREER Award (2024)
• CEAS Distinguished Researcher Award (2024)
• Best Poster Award, ASGSR Annual Meeting (2018)

Grants & Advising: Principal Investigator (PI) on NSF grants totaling over $750K, including a CAREER Award. Advises students on projects related to phase change dynamics and thermal management. Collaborates on projects like the REALIZE-2050 REU Site.

Lab Activities: UCLID explores transport mechanics at curved liquid-vapor interfaces, with applications in the hydrogen economy, space propulsion, and advanced manufacturing. Recent achievements include the 2025 Gold Star Lab Award and student recognitions like the Armstrong Fellowship.