A fascination with materials and a passion for teaching

Rizacan Sarikayarizacan sarikaya

Trine University - Allen School of Engineering & Computing
B.S., Istanbul Technical University; M.S., Ph.D., University of Kansas
260.665.4238  |  email

I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to follow my dream and study mechanical engineering. My studies provided me with a comprehensive understanding of complex structures and their mechanical behavior. As I gained experience in automotive and aerospace industries, I became fascinated by the impact of materials. Since then, I have investigated material systems from both experimental and computational perspectives. As a milestone of this journey, I completed my Ph.D. in mechanical engineering based on my work on multi-scale interfacial mechanics.

While I was pursuing my graduate studies, I realized my passion for teaching. I had the opportunity to teach mechanical engineering classes initially as a graduate teaching assistant. The joy of learning and teaching created a powerful exchange that was recognized by students and faculty. As I developed further expertise with my research, I mentored undergraduate researchers on a number of projects. I was overjoyed with their success as they received recognition with publications and awards. Developing particular knowledge and sharing that with emerging engineers and scientists has given me the chance to learn and continue my growth as a teacher. After I received my Ph.D. degree, I started at Trine as an assistant professor.

Besides my passion for teaching and research, I enjoy spending time with literature, travel and gastronomy.

You can see my research profile here.