Mechanical engineering has traditionally dealt with objects and systems at macroscopic length scales. As system size has decreased to the nanoscale, the research efforts in the MechSE Department have focused on phenomena at surfaces and length scales that have traditionally been the domain of physics and chemistry. At the same time, mechanical engineers use a systems approach to develop new ideas and products that are far-reaching in order to meet societal needs. 

Research at MechSE, therefore, is pivotal, creating opportunities at the intersection of science and engineering. 

To have the greatest impact on the world around us, MechSE faculty have aligned their research efforts with societal needs. The columns in our faculty research matrix list the fundamental areas of the discipline, while the rows represent critical societal needs. 

Each area requires substantial collaboration, either among fundamental areas within engineering, or with other disciplines such as chemistry, physics, biology, or medicine. These collaborative efforts have the potential to shorten the timeline from scientific discovery to solutions that address ongoing and ever-changing global concerns. 

Fundamental Areas

• Fluid Mechanics
• Solid Mechanics
• Thermo and Heat Transfer
• Applied Physics
• Chemistry
• Dynamics and Controls
• Computation and Applied Math

Societal Impact

• Energy
• Environment
• Health and Bio
• Manufacturing
• Security and Defense
• Transportation