Samantha Webster

Samantha 'Sam' Webster is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines. Her research focuses on mechanics, materials science, and machine design, leveraging laser and metal additive manufacturing (AM) technologies to address human-centered challenges. She holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida (with minors in biomechanics and music performance) and a Ph.D. in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics from Northwestern University, advised by Dr. Jian Cao.

Her postdoctoral work at NIST's Material Measurement Laboratory under Dr. Carelyn Campbell explored hybrid metal AM techniques to mitigate defects and optimize microstructures. Key research methods include custom manufacturing setups and multi-scale in-situ observations like high-speed X-ray imaging.

• Research Themes: Laser directed energy deposition (DED-LB), multi-material fabrication, defect formation mechanisms
• Awards: NSF GRFP, SME 30 Under 30 recognition

Her work bridges fundamental materials science with practical manufacturing solutions, emphasizing real-world applications through innovative fabrication approaches.