Education
Ph.D., Materials Engineering MIT, 1998
S.B. Materials Science and Engineering, MIT, 1992

Professor Hyers works at the interface between computers and the physical world. His most recent applications are in high-temperature materials and high-temperature materials processing systems. His recent projects include model-based experiments on the Space Station including magnetohydrodynamic effects on nucleation and solidification, novel methods for measurement of properties of matter at high temperature, scale-up of a novel metallurgical process by 1000X, and a novel approach to thermal management in spacecraft propulsion.

He has extensive experience with startup companies, entrepreneurship, and innovation. His experience includes founding companies, co-founding an educational program in entrepreneurship and innovation which grew to over 200 students per semester, and leading a privately-funded industrial startup for three years.

Professor Hyers joined WPI in 2023 as Department Head for Mechanical & Materials Engineering after serving on the faculty of the University of Massachusetts from 2002-2022. He is currently the owner of RHA Materials, LLC, a company specializing in consultation and contract research on high-temperature materials and materials processing for clients in the aerospace and extractive industries.

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 5: Gender Equality

SDG 5: Gender Equality - Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls

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SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy - Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all

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SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure - Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

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SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production - Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns

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Scholarly Work

Professor Hyers’ research explores the interface between computers and the physical world. His most recent research has been in high-temperature materials and high-temperature materials processing systems.

Professional Highlights & Honors
Fellow, ASM International, 2018

Brimacombe Medal, TMS, 2012

Werner Köster Award (Outstanding paper in International Journal of Materials Research), 2021

Alexander Scott Distinguished Service Award, TMS, 2019

Faculty Exceptional Merit Award, University of Massachusetts, 2013

Faculty Fellowship, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, 2012

Ralph R. Teetor Educational Award from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) International, 2008

Advisor of the Year, Mechanical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, 2007

Professor of the Year, Mechanical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, 2006

Professor of the Year, Mechanical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, 2005

EPD Young Leader Intern, TMS, 2005

Advisor of the Year, Mechanical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, 2004

NASA Special Service Award, 2000 - 2001