Mechanical & Materials Engineering

Groundbreaking research in a collaborative environment.

WPI’s Department of Mechanical & Materials Engineering continues to build upon its 150-year history of innovative undergraduate and graduate engineering education. With the expertise of more than 40 faculty members, our research solves problems that matter to people and the larger society. 

The university's commitment to research contributes to a continuing and substantial growth in research expenditures and graduate student population. Faculty and students work closely to advance WPI’s particular strengths in Advanced Manufacturing, Energy, Advanced Materials, Autonomous Vehicles, Space Exploration, Health and Biotechnology, Sensors and Metrology, Food and Water, and Engineering Education.

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Major Qualifying Project (MQP) Senior Showcase

Undergraduate Research Projects Showcase (URPS)

A celebration of research, design, and creative theses—a requirement of every graduating senior through the Major Qualifying Project—takes place each spring on campus. Student teams representing all academic departments present their work to their faculty advisors, external sponsors, and the community-at-large, and the public is invited.

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Research

Students in WPI’s Department of Mechanical & Materials Engineering have many choices for projects and research, including Advanced Manufacturing, Energy, Advanced Materials, Autonomous Vehicles, Space Exploration, Health and Biotechnology, Sensors and Metrology, Food and Water, and Engineering Education.

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Our People

Our world-class faculty use their expertise, diverse perspectives, and commitment to innovation and collaboration to teach the next generation of engineers while also leading groundbreaking research to solve the world's most pressing challenges.

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Beyond WPI

Whether the final goal is a career path in research or one in industry, the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience gained at WPI will ensure students have a place in the next phase of mechanical and materials engineering that has a direct, global impact. 

Research Spotlight

Discover how Yihao Zheng, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, is using applied science, engineering, and technology to advance manufacturing in the healthcare industry.

From WPI's University Magazine

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Pitch Perfect

Gabriela Hoops ’19 operates at the crucial intersection between sports and tech.

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A Dry Heat

Jamal Yagoobi’s dual areas of expertise have him in demand everywhere from outer space to the manufacturing floor.

Renewable Energy in the Rockies

A student team conducted a feasibility study of renewable energy at the Estes Park campus in Colorado. 

News

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Meet Our Students

Laura Rodriguez Melo '26
Laura Rodriguez Melo '26
BS in Mechanical Engineering

Laura immerses herself in experiential learning with meaningful projects and other academic opportunities. [...]

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Tessa Lytle
Tessa Lytle
PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tessa’s college career, both on and off the skating rink, has provided her many opportunities to get involved and make an impact. [...]

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Gabriel Espinosa ‘24
Gabriel Espinosa ‘24
BS in Mechanical Engineering

Gabriel works to pursue his passion for sustainability and engineering through WPI’s clubs and hands-on learning experiences. [...]

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Alisa Gueco '25
Alisa Gueco '25
BS in Mechanical Engineering

Alisa grows her research and leadership skills through her lab work and involvement with several student groups.  [...]

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Edward Flanagan ‘24
Edward Flanagan ‘24
BS, Mechanical Engineering

For ROTC student Eddie, teamwork and interacting with a variety of people have made him a better student and athlete.  [...]

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Luka Christianson ‘24
Luka Christianson ‘24
BS, Mechanical Engineering

Luka’s dedication to his studies, ROTC, and athletics has helped him develop his leadership and teamwork skills, both on and off the field[...]

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Donor Profiles

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David Heebner '67

For David Heebner ’67, lieutenant general, U.S. Army retired, being “all you can be” isn’t a slogan. It’s one of life’s primary guidelines for having impact. 

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April Hammond '85, MS '88

This Mechanical and Materials Engineering alum's endowment will provide financial resources to recruit or retain outstanding graduate students studying fire protection engineering.