Heat Transfer
Faster working speeds and rapid miniaturization in optoelectronic devices have highlighted challenges in thermal mitigation and heat dissipation. As interactions between energy carriers grow more complex during device operation, controlling and tuning thermal properties at submicron scales and on femto-to-picosecond timeframes becomes crucial. Our research aims to understand the fundamental mechanisms of energy carrier excitation and relaxation in various materials, striving to utilize generated heat for sustainable energy and address thermal issues in optoelectronic devices. We employ laser-based optical techniques and advanced computational tools to study heat and energy transfer at nano/macro scales.
Industry 4.0
Our research group investigates issues related to automation and robotics for Industry 4.0 and beyond. We consider the impact of automation on humans, systems, and sustainability. Our goal is to develop practical applications and strategies within this framework, focusing on IoT, automation, and data analytics.
Faculty: Manbir Sodhi
Intelligent Control and Robotics
The Intelligent Control and Robotics group conducts theoretical and applied research on dynamical systems modeling, diagnosis, and control with applications in autonomous robotic systems, robotic manipulators, and unmanned vehicles. The group also researches the design, modeling, and control of robotic assembly and disassembly operations and industrial automation systems.
Faculty: Philip Datseris, Musa Jouaneh, Chengzhi Yuan
Microfluidics and Microsystems
Developing novel microfluidic systems to address critical challenges in biomedical research and environmental monitoring, leveraging state-of-the-art techniques like acoustofluidics, paper-based microfluidics, machine learning, and organ-on-chip technologies.
Faculty: Mohammad Faghri, Yang Lin
Nonlinear Dynamics and Vibrations
Our research focuses on theoretical and applied nonlinear vibrations and dynamics; vibration-based structural health monitoring; dynamical systems perspective on fatigue evolution; modal testing and analysis; nonlinear system identification; dynamics, control, and stability of engineered systems. The main research goal is to synthesize knowledge from fields such as dynamical and stochastic systems, linear and nonlinear time series analysis, multivariate analysis, and estimation and filtering theory to develop and implement innovative techniques for modeling, simulation, control, diagnosis, and prognosis of engineered and biological systems.
Faculty: David Chelidze
Nuclear Energy
The nuclear research program concentrates on advancing materials, shielding, and reactor designs, with a focus on fuel experiments for next-generation propulsion and power applications, including space and undersea endeavors. Additionally, radiation effects are studied to develop enhanced shielding for space travel and to comprehend damage in reactor materials for enhanced durability. The program also explores microreactors and nuclear-powered undersea propulsion.
Faculty: Hamouda Ghonem, Bahram Nassersharif
Solid Mechanics
The Mechanical Engineering Solid Mechanics Graduate Research Program aims to enhance understanding and application of solid mechanics principles across dynamic and quasi-static loads. This program explores material and structural behaviors under varying forces, integrating theoretical study, computational modeling, and experimental research. Graduates are prepared to innovate in fields like automotive, civil, materials science, and aerospace, focusing on challenges such as impact resistance, fatigue, and deformation. The curriculum emphasizes analytical, numerical, and experimental skills for complex material behavior and structural design.
Faculty: Hamouda Ghonem, Helio Matos, Carl-Ernst Rousseau, Arun Shukla, David Taggart
Sustainability
The Industrial and Systems Engineering faculty supports a multi-pronged approach to sustainability initiatives that aim to tackle a multitude of structural needs through human factors and design.
Faculty: Gretchen Macht, Valerie Maier-Speredelozzi, Jyh-Hone Wang
Sustainable Energy
The Energy group performs research in combustion and fuels, as well as energy, focusing on innovative approaches to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy efficiency. Our studies also delve into the potential of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source, aiming to contribute significantly to global efforts in environmental sustainability and energy solutions.
Faculty: Ashutosh Giri, Anthony Marchese, Zongqin Zhang
Voter Operations and Election Systems
The University of Rhode Island Voter OperaTions and Election Systems (URI VOTES) laboratory uses engineering approaches to make data-enabled recommendations that help election administrators and officials overcome current and future obstacles in election science.
Faculty: Gretchen Macht