The faculty in the Inamori School of Engineering is well known for its contributions to various fields of science and engineering. They direct sponsored research projects, supervise undergraduate and graduate research theses, contribute to the science and engineering literature, and participate in professional engineering societies.
The School actively promotes the collaborations of its student and faculty with other science and engineering professionals. Students participate in internships and on-campus research projects sponsored by industrial organizations, national laboratories, and government agencies. Graduate students and faculty conduct experiments at national and international user facilities. Members of the faculty serve as visiting scientists and visiting professors at other research and education institutions. Research in the Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering ranges from basic science to applied engineering. In the materials programs, areas of specialization include atomistic and macro-mechanical modeling; solid-state chemistry; powder synthesis and characterization; nanomaterials and powders; ceramic processing, sintering and manufacturing; structural and high-temperature materials; electro-ceramics; electrochemical conversion; interfaces and composites; biomaterials; glass; optical materials; and materials characterization. In the Mechanical Engineering program, areas of specialization include heat transfer, mechanics of materials, and finite-element modeling, and renewable energy systems. In the Electrical Engineering program, areas of specialization include thin-film deposition, control systems, and renewable energy systems. More information about the specific activities and research interests of the faculty can be found on our Engineering Faculty/Staff Contact Page.
The Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering maintains an annual research budget of around $5M. The research is sponsored by federal and state agencies, industrial organizations, philanthropic foundations, and the New York College of Ceramics. Monies received through these grants and contracts support the educational mission of the School.
Many undergraduate and graduate students work on sponsored projects, gaining experience as well as financial assistance.
Several focused research and educational centers reside within the School of Engineering. The Center for Advanced Ceramic Technology (CACT) – a joint enterprise among the University, government, and industry – facilitates research and development of high-technology materials in support of New York State economic development. The Center for High Temperature Characterization provides academic and industry researchers access to state-of-the-art facilities for characterizing and measuring the properties of materials at high temperatures and controlled environments.