Explore Our Research Spaces
Labs and Centers
Department faculty, students, and researchers work in the following labs and centers. Together with partners from government agencies and industry, they lead the way in innovative research around manufacturing, energy storage, robotics, hypersonics, and thermal, fluid, and structural systems. Learn more about some of those labs and centers below.
Advanced Laser Diagnostics Laboratory
Research at the Advanced Laser Diagnostics Lab focuses on advancing aerospace science in propulsion, alternative energy, and beyond. A key strength is the development of cutting-edge optical and laser diagnostics, like Radar REMPI and PLIF, to quantify critical reactions in aeropropulsion. Researchers have measured methyl radicals and other trace species in atmospheric flames. Another focus is novel nanoenergetic materials, including discoveries of photothermal effects that enable flash-activated motion and ignition of both “dry” and “wet” nanoenergetics, explored through experiments and simulations.
Electrochemical Energy Storage and Conversion
The Electrochemical Energy Storage and Conversion Lab is internationally recognized as a leading laboratory for the study of electrochemical power conversion and storage systems. The mission of the laboratory is to develop experimental diagnostics and modeling tools to help fundamentally characterize and optimize electrochemical power storage and conversion systems. Major thrust areas for the lab include polymer electrolyte fuel cells and flow battery systems with some additional work on microbial energy systems and electrochemical sensors. Research sponsorship has come from a wide variety of sources, including dozens of industrial and government sources. Our lab alumni now work as professors, in national labs, and industry.
Fibers and Composites Manufacturing Facility
UT’s FCMF specializes in the research, development, and prototyping of advanced fiber-reinforced plastics and composites. Its expertise includes product and process development, characterization, modeling and simulation, and nondestructive evaluation of thermoset and thermoplastic composites. FCMF engages both undergraduate and graduate students in hands-on composites technologies as well industry partners for testing, problem-solving, and product development. Key capabilities include injection molding, vacuum infusion, composite recycling, and low-cost carbon fiber technologies. FCMF collaborates closely with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and IACMI and provides STEM training and continuing education for industry professionals.
Institute for Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
The Institute for Advanced Materials & Manufacturing (IAMM) works to advance the understanding of materials and facilitates the translation of new knowledge into solutions, products, and services through industry, government, and academic partners. IAMM focuses on five key research areas: advanced manufacturing, advanced materials, materials for extremes, polymer science, and quantum materials. The Institute supports cutting-edge research, rapid prototyping, commercialization, and workforce development programs to prepare the next generation of innovators. Through a number of centers of excellence, IAMM unites faculty, staff, and students with external collaborators to drive forward cutting-edge research and enriching educational experiences.
Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation
The Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation (IACMI) brings together manufacturers, universities, research institutions, and state governments to revitalize U.S. manufacturing. The Institute includes more than 140 member organizations that collaborate to advance research and development efforts for the entire composites supply chain in the U.S. In addition to supporting and sharing technical advances, IACMI has created and offers a range of workforce development programs to train and prepare participants for careers in manufacturing.
REACH Lab
Our department has a long track record in various aspects of robotics and automation ranging from remote operations in hazardous environments to brick manufacturing automation. The REACH Lab explores new robotic structures, mechanisms, and controls. Some of these structures are continuously flexible, allowing them to conform to curved shapes and be made at very small scales. A main motivation for this research group is to create new tools tools that can save lives in minimally invasive surgery.
In addition to the above labs and centers, many of our faculty conduct research in personal lab spaces hosted within the Dougherty Engineering Building, Zeanah Engineering Complex, and Science and Engineering Research Facility amongst many other facilities.
