Why did you become an engineer?

I chose to become an engineer and study combustion with the overall goal of improving fuel efficiency in engines and reducing undesirable emissions such as soot and greenhouse gases. In light of current issues involving global warming, a long overdue political recognition that we as a society are at least in part responsible for changing the atmosphere on our planet, and an ever-diminishing supply of fossil fuels, the need to optimize our current fuel reserves and explore new sources of alternative energy is more important now as much as it ever was. It is incumbent on us to find healthy, safe, reliable ways to generate energy such that our children and their children can enjoy the same (or better) quality of life that we have enjoyed.

Why did you choose to go into academia?

Academia offers an environment where one can be creative and explore new unproven, promising technologies.

What do you like best (in reference to the above question)?

I enjoy the opportunity to explore new fundamental problems in combustion science and energy. Teaching is also greatly rewarding. As Richard Feynman, one of the great physicists in the past century, commented that each lecture encourages us as professors to revisit the fundamental concepts, reaffirming and rethinking the foundation upon which all else is based. To take quote from his popular book: "Surely You're Joking Mr. Feynman":

"I don't believe I can really do without teaching. The reason is, I have to have something so that when I don't have any ideas and I'm not getting anywhere I can say to myself, "At least I'm living; at least I'm doing something; I am making some contribution." - Richard Feynman

Explain your area of research (in layman’s terms)

In our lab, we study combustion of premixed gases with the intent to understand the rate at which fuel is consumed, the rate at which different combustion products are produced and further explore ways to reduce fuel consumption and undesirable pollutants while maintaining stable combustion. Together with undergraduate and graduate students, we are also involved in projects related to hydrogen gas production, energy generation from piezoceramics and electroactive polymers and catalytic combustion for portable power.

Who was your favorite teacher/professor and why?

No one favorite teacher. Perhaps, if I had to pick someone, I’d pick Richard Feynman or Steven Hawking, both physicists. I’d studied their writings in school and was astonished at their ability to bring such clarity to scientific topics such as the expanding universe, quantum physics, and Einstein’s principles of relativity that few can explain so comfortably.

I also have learned quite a bit from the students and am very aware that new ideas from colleagues and students are the very ideas that promote future growth and a healthy academic environment.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My wife. Who else would put up with me? ;)

What was your favorite class (and why)?

No one favorite class. In life, such amazingly diverse fields have a tremendous amount to offer and it depends ore on what you put into the class than anything else. Not to sound quip, but what you get out depends on what you put in. There's no free lunch. Perhaps you can call it "The conservation of lunch principle." In all seriousness, favorites come and go, and it's not important which field you are in or what your major is.... what matters is that you have a strong foundation in your area and that you never compromise certain basic principles upon which everything else is based.

What do you like to do to relax? What are your hobbies?
Jog and bike with friends and family.

Favorite book?
“Surely You’re Joking Mr. Feynman” by Richard Feynman

Favorite song?

Music touches all of us in one-way or another and great musicians are those that have an ability to grab our attention and touch our inner being. Some of my favorite musicians include a mix of artists including: The Great Lakes Swimmers, Jimmy Buffet, Jewel, CCR… songs

Favorite movie?
Barton Fink

Any advice for new students?

Work hard, challenge yourself and challenge your teacher and administrators to provide you will the best tools possible for your own professional and personal growth.