Michael Sutton

Dr. Michael Sutton is a Distinguished Professor (equivalent to Professor) in Mechanical Engineering and Biomedical Engineering at the University of South Carolina's Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing. His research advances optical measurement techniques for experimental mechanics applications.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, University of Illinois (1981)
• M.S. in Engineering Mechanics and Materials, Southern Illinois University (1974)
• B.S. in Engineering Mechanics and Materials, Southern Illinois University (1972)

Research expertise includes digital image correlation (DIC), fracture mechanics, finite element modeling validation, and optical metrology. Work enables precise deformation measurement in materials and structures under various loading conditions.

Recent publications feature innovations in DIC applications for aerospace, biomedical, and infrastructure systems. Studies develop novel techniques for full-field deformation measurement, composite material characterization, and infrastructure monitoring using drone-based and satellite-based systems.