Kashif Nawaz, a distinguished researcher at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has notably been named a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). This prestigious title is awarded to engineers who have made significant contributions to the field, recognizing Nawaz for his more than a decade of active practice in engineering achievements.
Since his arrival at ORNL in 2016, Nawaz has dedicated himself to innovate in the realm of building technologies, specifically within the spheres of heating, cooling, and dehumidification systems. According to the ORNL’s announcement, Nawaz's pioneering work includes the development of groundbreaking heat exchangers and the enhancement of phase-change material processes. His expertise is not limited to traditional materials, as he has also significantly contributed to the fabrication of next-generation heat exchangers using an additive manufacturing approach, employing materials such as metals, ceramics, and polymer composites.
Nawaz's illustrious portfolio extends beyond mere innovation; its practical applications are evident in his development of a new technology designed to directly capture carbon dioxide from the air. This novel method leverages existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, embodying an interdisciplinary approach to environmental challenges. Alongside his research, he has been an active contributor to academia, co-authoring over 200 publications and holding more than 10 patents related to thermal management processes. His commitment to the scientific community is further demonstrated by his service as chair of the Heat Transfer Equipment and Environmental Heat Transfer committees within ASME and his extensive involvement in organizing conferences.
Prior to his tenure at ORNL, Nawaz was a senior engineer at Johnson Controls in their Heat Transfer Center of Excellence. In addition to his current research role, he holds a joint faculty appointment with The Bredesen Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Graduate Education at the University of Tennessee. His extensive academic credentials are highlighted by a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign.
The research efforts at ORNL, managed by UT-Battelle for the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, continue to push the envelope of what is possible in the physical sciences. As reported by the ORNL news release, the Office of Science is driven to tackle some of the most complex and urgent challenges facing our world today. For those interested in the latest scientific innovations and their real-world implications, more information can be found by visiting the Department of Energy’s Office of Science website.
