
Martin Erinin recently joined the University of Michigan Department of Mechanical Engineering as an Assistant Professor.
Erinin earned his bachelor’s degree and PhD in mechanical engineering from the University of Maryland, where he was inspired to pursue research in fluid mechanics. His PhD research focused on free surface turbulence, breaking waves, and droplet generation, culminating in his dissertation, “The Dynamics of Plunging Breakers and Spray Generation.”
Prior to joining U-M ME, Erinin served as a postdoctoral research associate in the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering at Princeton University, working on problems related to fundamental processes occurring in the environment.
Q. What is your primary area of research? Why is this area of study so important to the engineering community?
My research is in experimental fluid mechanics with a focus on free surfaces, multiphase flows, and surfactant-dominated flows. Our lab uses sophisticated experimental techniques to help us understand the fundamental physics that controls a number of fluid flow phenomena. For example, our past studies on breaking waves and spray generation helped our understanding of the environmental processes that occur near the ocean-atmosphere boundary. These processes can, in-turn, significantly impact weather patterns and the earth’s climate. Generally, our research has broad implications in areas like naval hydrodynamics and environmental and industrial processes.
Q. Can you tell us a bit about what you are working on right now?
We are currently interested in several projects, which include the effects of surfactants on the aerodynamic breakup of droplets, the accretion of ice on marine structures, and the transport of inertial particles near turbulent free surfaces. We are particularly excited to use the Wind-Wave Tank and Towing Tanks at the Marine Hydrodynamics Laboratory at U-M to study a number of physical processes associated with wave breaking.
Q. What are you most looking forward to as an assistant professor with U-M Mechanical Engineering?
Over the coming years, I’m really looking forward to being part of the academic community at U-M and helping it grow and evolve. I’m eager to work with and mentor young, motivated individuals to tackle difficult scientific problems that impact society through environmental, naval, and industrial domains.
Q. Why did you choose to join the faculty at U-M ME?
It was my dream to come to U-M because I was drawn to the exceptionally supportive and nurturing community in the Mechanical Engineering Department and the College of Engineering. It was clear that I would receive all the support I needed to develop an independent research program at U-M, while also having the chance to collaborate with my colleagues and work alongside talented undergraduate and graduate students as well as researchers. The collection of talent and strong tradition in academic research here is unparalleled.
To learn more about Erinin’s research, visit the Erinin Research Group website.