Samit Roy

Dr. Samit Roy is the William D. Jordan Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics at The University of Alabama, College of Engineering. He is actively involved in research through multiple centers including the Center for Advanced Vehicle Technologies and the Polymers and Soft Materials Research Center.

• Ph.D., Engineering Science and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, 1988
• M.S., Aerospace Engineering, Virginia Tech, 1986
• B.Tech, Aerospace Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, 1981

Dr. Roy's research focuses on advanced composite materials, with a strong emphasis on multiscale modeling, nanotechnology, and self-healing polymers. His work spans computational mechanics, material characterization, and manufacturing of high-performance composites for aerospace applications. He investigates fracture mechanisms, interfacial strength enhancement using carbon nanotubes, and structural health monitoring using embedded sensors.

His recent publications highlight a strong trend in nanocomposites, multiscale modeling, and self-healing materials, particularly focusing on carbon nanotube-wrapped fibers and thermoset composites. These works employ molecular dynamics and finite element methods to understand material behavior at micro and nanoscales, contributing to the development of durable, lightweight, and intelligent materials for extreme environments.

Dr. Roy has received numerous accolades for his contributions to composites research and academic leadership:

• ASC/DEStech Award in Composites, 2023
• UA President’s Senior Research Scholar Award, 2024
• Fellow of ASME, 2010
• Associate Fellow of AIAA, 2007
• Summer Faculty Fellowship at Air Force Research Laboratory, 2016

He has secured significant research funding, notably from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, where he served as a program officer. His leadership extends to mentoring Ph.D. students and guiding research teams in composite material innovation. He has been elected to leadership roles in technical divisions of ASC and ASME, reflecting his national impact.

Dr. Roy leads research initiatives within interdisciplinary centers focused on advanced materials and vehicle technologies, collaborating with teams on scalable manufacturing, damage prognosis, and smart material systems.