Teaching Activities
Our teaching approach combines traditional and advanced topics in aerospace materials, manufacturing, and metallurgy with innovative, hands-on learning experiences. We integrate interactive exercises, advanced visualization techniques, and real-world problem-solving to enhance understanding. Students engage in active learning through industry visits to local aerospace and manufacturing companies and hands-on experimentation with state-of-the-art technologies. By incorporating these dynamic teaching methods, we foster a deeper understanding of complex material behaviors and equip students with the skills needed for the next generation of engineering challenges.
Additionally, Dr. Prameela teaches undergraduate/graduate courses at the University of Utah relating to aerospace engineering and rocket science. Recently, his class worked together on a project on Modern Propulsion Systems, pictured below.
Conference Activities
We actively participate in leading conferences such as TMS, the Mach Conference, MRS, AIAA SciTech, and NASA Ablation Workshops, providing our undergraduate and graduate students with invaluable opportunities to present their research and engage with experts in the field. These conferences serve as platforms for students to network with industry leaders, government researchers, and academics, fostering collaborations that drive innovation. By attending these events, our students gain exposure to cutting-edge advancements, receive feedback on their work, and build connections that support their professional growth in aerospace, materials science, and manufacturing.
Open Day Visits and Grad Fly-in
We welcome prospective students to visit STARS Lab through open days and potential graduate fly-in programs. These events provide an opportunity to explore our research facilities, meet current students and faculty, and gain insight into the cutting-edge work we do in aerospace materials and advanced manufacturing. Visiting students can engage in discussions about ongoing projects, tour our experimental setups, and learn about funding opportunities for graduate studies. Whether through open days or a structured fly-in program, we aim to connect with talented individuals interested in pushing the boundaries of materials science and engineering.
Community Engagement, Highschool Visits, and Invited Talks
STARS Lab is committed to community engagement through high school visits, invited talks, and outreach events that inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. We visit local high schools to demonstrate hands-on experiments, introduce students to aerospace materials and manufacturing, and spark curiosity about engineering and space exploration. Our team also participates in invited talks at conferences, universities, and industry events, sharing our research and fostering collaborations across disciplines. Through these efforts, we aim to make cutting-edge science accessible, encourage diverse participation in STEM fields, and build strong connections between academia, industry, and the broader community.
Industry Interactions: 47G, Utah Aerospace Hub, and Others
STARS Lab actively collaborates with industry partners to bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications. Through our involvement with 47G, we contribute to the development of advanced materials for extreme environments, supporting aerospace and defense innovations. As part of the Utah Aerospace Hub, we engage with local and national aerospace companies, working on cutting-edge manufacturing and materials challenges. Additionally, we maintain strong ties with various industry leaders, government agencies, and research institutions to drive technology transfer, workforce development, and impactful scientific advancements. These interactions provide students and researchers with valuable networking opportunities, industry exposure, and pathways for collaborative research.
Home 