Matthew Smith

Matthew Smith is a Professor of Engineering at Hope College, where he has been a faculty member since 2012. He teaches courses such as Introduction to Engineering Materials, Statics, Dynamics, and Mechanical Vibrations, and collaborates with Hope’s Boerigter Center for Calling and Career to enhance student internship and employment opportunities.

• Ph.D., Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, Cornell University, 2009
• B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Cedarville University, 2003
• B.A., Mathematics, Cedarville University, 2003

His research focuses on responsive materials, particularly liquid crystal polymers and hydrogels that undergo shape changes under light or temperature stimuli. He employs mathematical models and computational tools to predict material behavior, contributing to advancements in smart materials, photomechanical actuation, and biomechanics.

His publications highlight trends in photomechanical switching, autonomic motion, and elastic instability modeling. These works bridge disciplines including materials science, mechanical engineering, and chemistry, with applications in soft robotics, adaptive structures, and biomimetic systems.