Sunand Santhanagopalan

Dr. Sunand Santhanagopalan is an Associate Professor of Instruction in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). He directs the Multi-Scale Energy Systems Laboratory and has been with UTA since 2014, initially as a Post Doctoral Research Associate (2014-2017), then as a Lecturer (2018-2024), and in his current role since September 2024. His academic background includes a PhD (2013) and MS (2011) in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University, and a BE in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Mumbai (2006).

His research focuses on Multi-Scale Energy Systems, with expertise spanning:

• Scalable nanomanufacturing techniques for energy devices
• Electrochemical conversion/storage (batteries, supercapacitors)
• Advanced nanomaterials synthesis (fractal architectures, nanodendrites)
• Thermal energy storage (molten salt microencapsulation)
• Microbial fuel/electrolysis cells and electrocatalysis

Analysis of his 12 most recent publications reveals strong emphasis on nanomaterial-enabled energy solutions, with 50% focusing on electrochemical storage (supercapacitors, batteries), 33% on thermal storage innovations, and 17% on catalytic materials. His work consistently integrates advanced synthesis methods like electrophoretic deposition and hydrothermal growth with practical energy applications.

Awards and Honors

• 2023: Nominee for Provost’s Award for Excellence in Teaching
• 2022: Most Valuable Faculty for Mechanical Engineering
• 2018: Most Valuable Mechanical Engineering Faculty Award
• 2018: Invited NSF Panel Member
• 2012: Doctoral Finishing Fellowship Award

Advising & Grants: He mentors 19 graduate students (PhD and Master's) and has secured $116,036 in NSF funding for nanoparticle fabrication research. Unfunded proposals include DOE projects on molten salt thermal storage enhancements. His laboratory focuses on scalable nanomanufacturing and energy system prototyping.