Mark A. Cappelli

Mark A. Cappelli is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University and Co-Director of the Engineering Physics Program. He holds a B.Sc. in Physics from McGill University (1980), and M.A.Sc. and Ph.D. in Aerospace Sciences from the University of Toronto (1983, 1987). His research focuses on applied plasma physics, with applications in space propulsion, aerodynamics, medicine, materials synthesis, and fusion. He is actively involved in plasma electromagnetics, topological edge states, and plasma metamaterials.

Education:

• Ph.D., University of Toronto, Aerospace Science and Engineering (1987)
• M.A.Sc., University of Toronto, Aerospace Sciences (1983)
• B.Sc., McGill University, Physics (1980)

Research Interests:

Professor Cappelli explores plasma dynamics in diverse contexts, including:

• Plasma-based propulsion systems and electric thrusters
• Non-equilibrium plasma chemistry for carbon capture and water treatment
• Electromagnetic wave manipulation using plasma metamaterials
• Topological surface states in magnetized plasmas
• Inverted corona fusion targets for neutron generation
• Coherent plasma instabilities and diagnostic techniques

Grants & Advising:

His research is supported by grants from NASA, DOE, and industry partnerships. He advises graduate students in plasma physics and engineering physics, focusing on experimental and computational plasma dynamics.

Labs & Teams:

Cappelli leads the Plasma Dynamics Laboratory at Stanford, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams in aerospace engineering, materials science, and environmental engineering to advance plasma technologies.