Chamorro's research lab works to shape the next generation of academic leaders

The Renewable Energy & Turbulent Environment Group (RE-TE-G), led by MechSE Professor Leonardo Chamorro, has established itself as a talent incubator, consistently producing PhD graduates who go on to pursue successful careers in academia. Most recently, alumnus Dr. Jeffrey Cheng accepted a faculty position at the University of South Carolina, further affirming the group's reputation for academic excellence.  

Cheng’s success reflects the broader trajectory of Chamorro’s alumni, all but one of whom have secured faculty positions at leading institutions worldwide. Among the four most recent RE-TE-G graduates, three have transitioned to academia—Dr. Jin-Tae (Jimmy) Kim recently joined the Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) faculty, and Dr. Yaqing Jin is an assistant professor at the University of Texas at Dallas. Other RE-TE-G alumni are faculty at Penn State University, Union College, and the University of Science and Technology Beijing.  

Fellow alum Dr. Liu Hong chose to pursue an innovative career path in industry. Now at Spectral AI Inc., Hong uses his expertise to develop state-of-the-art algorithms in spatial computing, sensor processing, and augmented reality, particularly within health-care applications. His career highlights the adaptability and breadth of skills promoted within Chamorro’s research group.  

RE-TE-G is distinguished by its rigorous approach to developing advanced theoretical frameworks, pioneering flow diagnostic techniques, and applying these methodologies to a range of fluid- and structure-related applications in the environment and industry. This robust intellectual foundation equips graduates to navigate and contribute meaningfully to academic and industrial challenges, exemplifying the group’s influence on the discipline. Students who are interested in joining the group may inquire at lpchamo@illinois.edu.