The rapid growth of science and technology give way to new opportunities and demand for uniquely trained fire protection engineers. We foster a sustained growth of our graduate program through increased opportunities in research for our students.
Research OpportunitiesResearch at the Clark School
Cara Hamel (B.S. '16) demonstrates a fire whirl.
Our faculty members and students work within nine core research areas, listed below. For information on related graduate programs, visit the Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy pages.
FPE experiments measure detailed properties of laminar diffusion flames to better understand their behavior... and that of large turbulent fires.
Learn MoreFPE researchers develop tools to characterize and improve spray patterns, including fire sprinklers and other fire suppression nozzles.
Learn MoreUsing computer models, FPE researchers simulate the movement of fire, smoke and heat through various structures, and estimate the response time of fire-safety devices.
Learn MoreFPE researchers conduct studies to improve fire detection methods, including the development of a multi-sensor detector prototype for traditional smoke sensors, heat sensors and gas sensors.
Learn MoreUnderstanding human behavior, and how people use various components of egress routes, are key to ensuring people exit a building safely in the event of an emergency. FPE studies quantify egress usage and decision-making to improve building design.
Learn MoreUnderstanding how materials - such as plastic and refrigerants - react to fire is critical for ensuring safety of the built environment. FPE researchers study physical and chemical processes to guide development of novel, fire-safe materials.
Learn MoreFPE research involves estimating amounts of smoke production - a prerequisite to determining exhaust capacities of venting systems in large spaces, such as atria and arenas.
Learn MoreFPE faculty members have developed several experiments currently being conducted in microgravity aboard the International Space Station.
Learn MoreWatch how fire moves in spaceAn improved understanding of firebrands is crucial to protecting against wildland fires - FPE researchers recently developed a diagnostic that measures temperatures of burning embers with a digital camera.
Learn MoreFPE researchers study the energetics and dynamics of failure processes in Lithium-ion batteries - commonly used in household items - and their reaction to the chemical composition and structure of Li-ion cells.
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