معرفی
Thomas Cooper is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Lassonde School of Engineering, York University. He leads the CooperLab, conducting cutting-edge experimental research in solar energy, thermal science, optics, and materials. His work focuses on developing technologies for efficient solar energy conversion into heat, electricity, and fuels.
Education:
- BASc in Mechanical Engineering, University of Toronto
- MSc and DrSc in Mechanical Engineering, ETH Zurich
- Postdoctoral Associate, NanoEngineering Group, MIT
His research interests include solar concentrators, photothermal materials, radiation heat transfer, high-temperature materials, thermochemistry, and solar desalination. He applies these to applications such as renewable fuel production, water purification, and even oxygen generation from Martian dust.
The 15 most recent publications reflect a consistent trajectory in solar energy engineering, with a strong emphasis on optical design, thermal characterization, and material innovation for solar thermal and thermochemical systems. Key journals include Nature Communications, Energy & Environmental Science, and Optics Express, indicating high-impact interdisciplinary research.
Scientific Awards:
- ASME Solar Energy Graduate Student Award
- ETH Medal
- Hans Eggenberger Prize
- Chorafas Prize
- NSERC PGS-M and PGS-D Fellowships
- Swiss National Science Foundation Early Postdoc Mobility Fellowship
- Best Paper Award 2013, Solar Energy Journal
Dr. Cooper actively supervises graduate students and has secured multiple competitive grants, including from NSERC, CFI, and the Lassonde Innovation Fund. His lab, located in the Bergeron Centre, features advanced facilities for solar simulation, high-temperature experiments, spectroscopy, and aerogel fabrication. He collaborates with industry partners like Synhelion AG and academic researchers across disciplines.
The CooperLab operates both indoor and rooftop experimental platforms, enabling on-sun testing of solar technologies. Current projects include photothermal materials for solar fuels, multifunctional aerogels, and high-temperature solar receivers. The lab fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in sustainable energy solutions.
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