Post-Doc at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Advanced Composite Materials Design, Optimization, & Fabrication

Daniel is a research expert in surface chemistry, additive manufacturing, colloidal assembly, composite materials processing, thermally conductive materials, superhydrophobic systems, energy storage solutions, machine sensorization, materials informatics, and first-principles modeling.

Graduating from Northeastern University's (NEU) Mechanical and Industrial Engineering PhD program with a concentration in Materials Science, his research focused on the development of a new class of thermally conductive polymer composites for additive manufacturing. During his time at NEU, he was an Academic Technology Scholar and a Teaching Fellow. As an Academic Technology Scholar, Daniel guided NEU faculty in converting their in-person courses to be hosted fully online in Canvas. As a Teaching Fellow, he was instructor of record for a core PhD course in Soft Matter (colloidal physics). Daniel received his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and his Master of Science in Materials Science from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Currently at MIT, Daniel is involved in research with the Learning Engineering and Practice (LEAP) Group, focusing on metric validation of online discussion forums, adaptive content in online learning, and the future for manufacturing education. Additionally, Daniel is involved in research with the Multifunctional Metamaterials (META) Lab on the development of thermally radiative polymer composites, mono-material textile fibers, and a textile materials database. As a Disciplinary Experts in Learning Technology & Applications (DELTA) team member, Daniel manages the development and launch of online learning content for the Mechanical Engineering Department.

A Science Communicator

Why THIS Matters on learn.mit.edu - Daniel is the host of the MIT Learn Podcast "Why THIS Matters". This podcast covers the intersection of science, policy, and design with the people that know where these topics affect you.

A Dedicated Mentor

Daniel’s approach to mentorship is characterized by a dedication to inclusivity, diversity, and growth for all individuals involved in his research and teaching. He has mentored a variety of students in research projects related to materials science, additive manufacturing, and engineering. Many of Daniel’s students have gone on to start impactful careers in industry and academia. He further aims to develop undergraduate research opportunities and industry collaborations to better prepare students for the job market.

As President of his fraternity’s alumni organization, Daniel’s service experiences include advising multiple individuals to work together across diverse problems. He has worked to make his fraternity chapter a welcoming and inclusive space for all members. He has also organized various service activities for alumni and members, providing them with professional development, life skills, and conflict resolution support.

Uniquely Interdisciplinary

Due to his interdisciplinary research and teaching experience, Daniel’s work involves both theoretical and practical approaches, including first-principles modeling, data analysis, and the integration of large language models for educational and research purposes. Daniel’s strong track record of publishing in high-impact journals and presenting at international conferences Daniel has a strong track record of publishing in high-impact journals and presenting at international conferences, indicating his abilities to contribute to the scientific community with consistent impact. Daniel’s experience in both academic and industry settings, combined with his technical skills and research capabilities, makes him a uniquely effective researcher.

An Awarded Researcher

Throughout his academic and professional career, Daniel has received numerous fellowships and awards for his research, presentations, and pedagogical impacts: