Robert W. Hyers

Robert W. Hyers is the George I. Alden Professor and Department Head of Mechanical & Materials Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), where he joined in 2023. He holds a Ph.D. and S.B. in Materials Engineering and Materials Science from MIT (1998 and 1992). His research bridges computational methods with physical materials systems, focusing on high-temperature materials, aerospace applications, and thermal management in space propulsion. He is also actively involved in entrepreneurship, founding companies and co-creating an educational program in innovation that serves over 200 students annually. Currently, he leads RHA Materials, LLC, a consultancy for high-temperature materials in aerospace and extractive industries.

• Education: Ph.D. Materials Engineering (MIT, 1998), S.B. Materials Science (MIT, 1992)
• Affiliations: TMS, ASME, ASM International, ASEE

His research interests include advanced sustainable materials, AI-driven materials discovery, and high-temperature measurement techniques. He has contributed to NASA-funded projects, such as developing methods to purify Martian brine and studying metal squeaking phenomena. Hyers has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Brimacambe Medal and multiple teaching/mentorship accolades from the University of Massachusetts.