Research Opportunities
Many faculty have active research projects in biomaterials, biofuels, alternative energy, manufacturing, numerical modeling, solid mechanics, composites, and rapid prototyping. Opportunities for independent study or employment as undergraduate researchers occur frequently in our department.
Dr. Chris Schilling has been conducting research in biofuels and alternative energy. His projects range from wind and solar energy potential in Michigan to efficiently producing ethanol, biodeisel, and biomass fuels from agricultural products and waste. Students working with Dr. Schilling have also converted a 1965 John Deere lawn tractor to use ethanol.
Dr. Robert Tuttle has been actively working in research on metalcasting and rapid prototyping technologies. His current projects are on macroinclusion formation in steel castings and ultrasonic testing repeatability and reliability. The macroinclusion project is trying to determine where in the steel casting process large inclusions are formed. Large inclusions reduce the ductility and strength of steel castings. The project is in cooperation with Bay Cast, Inc. For the ultrasonic testing project, SVSU is working with over five companies to determine how repeatable and reliable current ultrasonic testing is.
Dr. Enayat Mahajerin is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at SVSU. Prior to his current position he taught at Michigan State University, where he received his Ph.D. in 1981. His research interests include computational mechanics, structural analysis, and composites. He has received seeral awards includeing the Landee Award for Excellence in Teaching, and the Earl Warrick Award for Research. He has published numerous papers and technical reports in conjunction with his research and consulting. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, American Academic of Mechanics, and the Society of Engineering Science.
SVSU operates an outreach and economic support operation called the Independent Testing Laboratory, which provides local companies access to SVSU faculty and equipment for specialized testing needs. ME students are frequently employed to conduct routine testing procedures and assist in advanced testing. The ITL has been a great success at giving students an opportunity to gain real world experience and network with leaders in local industry.
Individual Research Group Sites
- Foundry Research Group
- Alternative Energy Group
- Tissue Engineering Group