Behnaz (Beth) Rezaie serves as an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering Technology within the Division of Physical and Computational Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. Her academic work focuses on advancing sustainability through innovative energy system research, particularly in district energy optimization and thermal energy storage technologies to enhance environmental protection and economic viability. Her educational background includes: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Ontario Tech. University, Canada M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Ontario Tech. University, Canada M.S. in Industrial Management, Lulea University of Technology, Sweden B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Iran Science and Technology University, Iran Dr. Rezaie's research program targets critical energy challenges through district energy system enhancements, thermal storage optimization, and sustainability modeling. She has developed evaluation frameworks for alternative energy technologies considering taxation and incentives, designed grid configurations for multiple thermal storages, and created building-specific energy scenarios. Her work consistently bridges theoretical modeling with practical implementation for energy efficiency gains. With over 50 peer-reviewed publications, her scholarly output shows increasing focus on integrated energy-water-food systems, exergy analysis, and innovative storage solutions. Recent publications explore cold thermal storage optimization, energy-water nexus applications, and hybrid renewable storage systems. Her highly cited Applied Energy paper demonstrates significant impact in district energy systems research. Recognition for her research excellence includes: Highly Cited Publication award from Applied Energy for landmark district energy systems research Dr. Rezaie has secured over $1 million in research funding as Principal or Co-Principal Investigator from governmental and industrial sources. Her current academic role encompasses mentoring mechanical engineering technology students while advancing sustainability-focused research. Previously, she managed industrial quality assurance laboratories and automotive projects for Toyota, Mazda, and Chrysler Canada. Her industrial background includes developing six quality assurance laboratories for Mega Motors in Iran and launching automotive projects with strict adherence to timelines and budgets, providing practical engineering perspective to her academic work.





