D. Stefan Dancila, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Education:
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Ph.D. Georgia Institute of Technology, 1998
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M.S. in AE Georgia Institute of Technology, 1992
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Aeronautical Engineer Polytechnic Institute Bucharest (Romania), 1986
Areas of Expertise: Solid mechanics; composite and smart materials/structures; tailoring of elastic deformation, failure modes, and energy dissipation; inflatable space structures; space tethers; fatigue and fracture; nondestructive evaluation; piezoelectric actuation and flow control; rotorcraft; high altitude airships; composite prosthetics; renewable energy.
Background: Dr. Dancila’s current research focus is on renewable energy, with particular emphasis on wind and ocean current energy, building upon research synergies with his funded research in rotorcraft, composite and smart structures, composite tailoring, and flow control. He is also continuing established research in rotorcraft, high altitude airships, composite prosthetics, inflatable space structures, and space tethers. His academic experience includes six years as Assistant Professor in the School of Aerospace Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he has taught courses in solid mechanics, aerodynamics, and aerospace vehicle performance at both the undergraduate and the graduate level, and has advised undergraduate and graduate students on academic matters as well as research, leading to three Ph.D. and five M.S. degrees. He has authored ten refereed and over thirty conference publications, and has been awarded three U.S patents, with another application pending. Dr. Dancila has a strong interest in technology-centered entrepreneurship and since 2003 he has initiated two small businesses focused on innovative engineering solutions in the areas of inflatable structures and airship technology from concept to modeling, to testing and design, and practical implementation. He has experience as a private pilot with glider and FAA Single Engine Land ratings.
| Phone | Office | |
| (817) 272-0833 | dancila@uta.edu | WH 414 |