James Urban

Assistant Professor

EDUCATION

PhD Mechanical Engineering University of California, Berkeley 2017

MS Mechanical Engineering University of California, Berkeley 2014

BS Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Case Western Reserve University 2012

Expert Bio

Professor Urban's research is focused on the physical processes controlling whether or not flammable material ignites and then understanding how it burns. Much of this research has focused on small, hot objects such as firebrands (burning debris from an existing fire). Professor Urban received a grant to use the International Space Station for research that could help predict the spread of wildfires back here on Earth. That study has been featured in multiple media outlets including the space exploration podcast Are We There Yet? and Spaceflight Now.

Media Coverage

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Spectrum News 1

Amid brush fires, WPI students prepare for the future of fire protection

As brush fires in the northeast continue, WPI students and faculty in the Department of Fire Protection Engineering are doing research and hands-on projects that help better understand how wildfires spread and their impact. Spectrum News 1 Worcester reported on the laboratory experiments being conducted aimed at protecting solar energy infrastructure from wildfire threats.

WHDH-TV

Brush fire burning hundreds of acres in Lynn Woods Reservation

James Urban, assistant professor in the Department of Fire Protection Engineering, spoke with 7News about active brush fires in Massachusetts, the elevated fire risk in the area, smoke hazards, and the challenges of putting out these types of fires in dry and windy conditions.

James Urban

Media Coverage

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