معرفی
Vladimir Mahalec is a Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering at McMaster University. With a career spanning over four decades, his scholarly activity shows consistent publication output from 1977 through 2025, with particular intensity in recent years. He maintains an active teaching schedule, offering graduate courses including Systems Modeling and Optimization (CHEMENG 753, SEP 752), Leadership for Innovation (SEP 773), and M.Eng. Project courses.
Professor Mahalec's research interests focus on the intersection of chemical engineering process optimization, hybrid modeling techniques, and sustainable energy systems. His work bridges traditional chemical engineering with modern computational approaches, particularly in refinery planning, distillation tower modeling, and carbon footprint reduction. He has developed innovative methodologies such as inventory pinch algorithms for gasoline blend planning and hybrid models combining first-principles with data-driven approaches for process monitoring and optimization.
Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward integrating machine learning with traditional process engineering. His work increasingly focuses on sustainability challenges, particularly zero-emission energy systems and greenhouse gas reduction strategies. The publications show a progression from purely process engineering topics toward interdisciplinary work combining chemical engineering, computer science, and environmental science.
Professor Mahalec has maintained a productive research program with consistent publication output across multiple high-impact journals including Computers and Chemical Engineering, AIChE Journal, and Energy. His co-author network includes notable researchers such as Prashant Mhaskar (8 publications), Robert Fleisig, and Christopher Swartz.
In the classroom, Professor Mahalec teaches advanced courses focused on systems modeling, optimization, and innovation leadership. His teaching portfolio demonstrates commitment to both technical depth in chemical engineering systems and broader skills development for engineering leadership. He has supervised numerous capstone design projects and M.Eng. projects, guiding students through complex process engineering challenges.
