University of Houston - United States
Professional Profiles
Early Academic Pursuits
Ben Xu embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in Thermal Engineering, earning a Bachelor's degree from Wuhan University, China, in 2007. His pursuit of knowledge continued with a Master's degree in Fluid Mechanics from the Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Xu then ventured to the United States, where he completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Arizona in 2015.
Professional Endeavors
Dr. Ben Xu's professional trajectory showcases a commitment to excellence. He started as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Drexel University in 2015, gaining valuable experience in Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics. Subsequently, he transitioned to academia, serving as an Assistant Professor at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley from 2016 to 2020. In 2020, he continued his academic journey as an Assistant Professor at Mississippi State University before joining the University of Houston in 2023.
Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Xu's contributions to the field of Mechanical Engineering are characterized by a multifaceted research focus. His work encompasses the study of oscillating flow and multiphase heat transfer in porous media, as evidenced by his leadership role in the NSF CBET-funded project. Additionally, his involvement in DOE SETO projects, such as "Light Trapping, Enclosed Planar-Cavity Receiver," showcases a commitment to sustainable energy solutions through innovative approaches.
Accolades and Recognition
Ben Xu's impact has not gone unnoticed, with numerous accolades recognizing his expertise. His role as a Co-Principal Investigator in the DOE SETO project, with a funding of $3 million, exemplifies the acknowledgment of his contributions to advancing energy storage and chemical processes. Recognition under the MSIPP of DOE/NNSA and NASA EPSCoR RID further underscores his standing as a distinguished researcher in the academic community.
Impact and Influence
Dr. Xu's influence extends beyond the laboratory, shaping the academic landscape through leadership roles. As the Presidential Frontier Faculty Fellow at the University of Houston, he brings innovative perspectives to the Department of Mechanical Engineering. His collaborative efforts in the Consortium of Advanced Additive Manufacturing Research and Education for Energy Related Systems (CA2REERs) demonstrate his commitment to fostering advancements in additive manufacturing for energy applications.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Ben Xu's legacy is marked by a combination of cutting-edge research and educational initiatives. His impact on undergraduate research, as seen in the MSU ORED Undergraduate Research Program, reflects a dedication to nurturing the next generation of researchers. Looking ahead, Dr. Xu's future contributions are anticipated to further advance the boundaries of knowledge in areas such as molecular dynamics studies of alloying and 3-D printing for enhanced heat transfer.
Notable Publications
Experimental Study of Eutectic Molten Salts NaCl/KCl/ZnCl2 Heat Transfer Inside a Smooth Tube for High-Temperature Application 2022
A deep-water in-situ power generation system based on chain-driven hydrokinetic turbine 2023
HYDROGEL-COATED MESH FOR HIGH-EFFICIENCY, ULTRA-FAST OIL-WATER SEPARATION 2023