UA Researcher Receives Oak Ridge Powe Grant

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Dr. Brian Fisher, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at The University of Alabama, is one of 30 researchers selected nationwide to receive a competitive grant from Oak Ridge Associated Universities through the Ralph E. Powe Junior Faculty Enhancement Awards program.

Fisher was awarded the grant for the 2012-2013 academic year for his study of the spray properties of diesel-surrogate fuels.

The Powe awards recognize junior university faculty members for their work in any of five science and technology disciplines that include engineering or applied science, life sciences, mathematics and computer science, physical sciences, and policy, management or education.

Fisher, who joined the UA College of Engineering department of mechanical engineering as an assistant professor in 2011, is part of the engines and combustion laboratory in the newly completed South Engineering Research Center.

His research focuses on characterization of high-pressure fuel-injection sprays, combustion, and emissions formation, with a particular emphasis on alternative fuels. It spans from fundamental combustion studies in laboratory-scale burners to combustion vessels that simulate engine conditions to full-scale engine testing.

The program provides funds to enrich the research and professional growth of young faculty serving in the first two years of a tenure-track position. Their institutions match the dollar amount of the ORAU award, giving the recipients “seed money” to enhance their research during the early stages of their career.

Fisher says that the grant will also allow one of his graduate students to travel to Oak Ridge National Laboratory this summer to collaborate on fuel injector and spray research.

“The Powe awards recognize young faculty who want to establish research credentials and compete for new funding opportunities,” said Dr. Arlene A. Garrison, ORAU vice president of university partnerships. “By supporting the research efforts of these emerging academic leaders, we are making a direct investment in the future of science and education in our country.”