Nilesh Kumar

Nilesh Kumar is an Assistant Professor and Undergraduate Program Coordinator in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at The University of Alabama, College of Engineering. His research focuses on the interplay between processing, microstructure, and mechanical properties of metallic materials used across industrial and nuclear applications.

His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology (2011), an M.E. from Indian Institute of Science (2006), and a B.E. from National Institute of Technology Karnataka (2004).

Dr. Kumar's research interests span Additive Manufacturing, Advanced Manufacturing, Advanced Materials, Fatigue and Durability, Corrosion, Materials Characterization, and Mechanical Testing. He investigates structure-property relationships in metallic systems, particularly stainless steels and nuclear materials, under extreme environments.

The recent publications highlight a strong focus on high-temperature deformation, creep behavior, dynamic strain aging, and microstructural evolution in austenitic stainless steels and zirconium alloys. His work also extends to advanced joining techniques like friction stir welding in high-strength aluminum alloys.

His scientific honors include:

• NSF CAREER Award (2024)
• Kent D. Peaslee Junior Faculty Award, AIST Foundation (2019–2020)
• AIST Foundation Steel Professor (2022)

Dr. Kumar has published 46 peer-reviewed journal articles, co-authored 4 books, and contributed to 4 book chapters. He is an active reviewer for over two dozen scientific journals and a member of several professional organizations. His current research is supported by prestigious grants, including the NSF CAREER award, indicating strong external funding and recognition in the early stages of his academic career.

He is affiliated with multiple research centers at The University of Alabama, including the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Materials Design Integration, contributing to interdisciplinary efforts in materials innovation and engineering design.