Mechanical Engineering, Ph.D.

Program Description

me.ucmerced.edu
Program Chair: Ashlie Martini, amartini@ucmerced.edu
Admissions Chair:  Yanbao Ma, yma5@ucmerced.edu

The Mechanical Engineering (ME) graduate program engages in individualized, research-based programs of study leading to the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees. The ME faculty members strive to provide students with a comprehensive research experience based on the latest developments of the analytical, numerical and experimental tools available in the field.  Mechanical Engineering includes a broad spectrum of research activities that are based on well-defined scientific principles. Judicious application of the fundamental principles of mechanics allows specialized Mechanical Engineers to impact virtually all fields of science and technology. The goal of the ME program at UC Merced is to provide its graduate students with a very solid foundation in mechanical sciences and a strong and comprehensive exposure to modern research techniques.

Courses are designed to provide the mathematical and scientific principles underlying the foundations of Mechanical Engineering, with emphasis on applications and novel research developments in diverse topics such as Advanced Dynamics, Modern Control Systems, Continuum Mechanics, Design and Manufacturing, Viscous Flows, Tribology, Radiative Transfer, etc. The ME graduate program provides a seamless transition for undergraduate students interested in pursuing graduate studies in these areas in a variety of areas.

The current ME faculty research strengths include:

• Design, manufacturing and optimization
• Dynamics, mechanics and controls for biomechanical applications
• Electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices
• Energy conversion and thermal systems
• Fuel cells
• Mechatronics for sustainability
• Plasma science and engineering
• Radiative heat transfer
• Scientific data-drones and unmanned systems
• Solar power and renewable energy
• Friction, Wear and Lubrication
• Vibrations and noise control
• Water and energy technologies

Ph.D. Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates with a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering:

1. Are able to identify significant research questions in mechanical engineering, and contextualize their research in the current literature of the field.
2. Are able to apply their knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering to solve a problem, and to design and implement a suitable solution.
3. Are able to design and conduct experiments and/or simulations of mechanical systems, and to analyze and evaluate.
4. Have lifelong learning skills; are able to acquire and use new engineering techniques, skills, and tools for research and development in mechanical engineering, and to develop new methods and discover new knowledge.
5. Exhibit high professional standards in research, demonstrating objectivity, ethical conduct, and integrity.
6. Are able to communicate effectively through oral, visual, and written means, with a broad range of technical audiences.