Manoj K. Mahapatra

Manoj K. Mahapatra serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), College of Engineering. He joined UAB in Fall 2015 after previously working as an Assistant Research Professor at the University of Connecticut. Prior to his academic career in the United States, he worked for two years as a scientist at the Defense Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) in India, focusing on body armor development.

His educational background includes:

• B. Tech. in Ceramics Technology from University of Calcutta
• M. Tech. in Ceramics Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology (BHU)
• Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Virginia Tech

Dr. Mahapatra's research focuses on the structure-processing-property relationships of ceramic and glass materials for energy and high-temperature applications. His work emphasizes low-cost processing techniques for metallic and ceramic coatings, functional ceramics and glasses, and the mechanistic understanding of materials degradation processes with corresponding prevention strategies. His expertise spans ceramics technology, glass science, and materials engineering with applications in energy systems and environmental sustainability. His research has practical implications for developing advanced materials that can withstand extreme conditions while maintaining functionality.

Dr. Mahapatra actively seeks motivated graduate students for his research program, with a Ph.D. position available for Fall 2022 as noted on his faculty page. He maintains regular office hours by appointment in the Education and Engineering Complex, room 358E, and can be reached at (205) 975-4666.