MAGS Distinguished Thesis Award Nominee – Fall 2024 – Draper, Thomas R.

Thomas Draper, M.S. in Engineering Mechanics, 2024

My journey at Michigan Technological University began in the fall of 2019 as an undergraduate in the Mechanical Engineering Department. From the start, I was captivated by mechanics and material behavior, eager to deepen my understanding beyond the standard curriculum. This curiosity ultimately led me to pursue a master’s thesis under the mentorship of the same remarkable faculty who had inspired my undergraduate studies.

In 2023, as I was completing my undergraduate degree, I was introduced to my research advisor, Dr. Susanta Ghosh, who welcomed me to his research team with open arms. Dr. Ghosh guided me into the world of research and helped me shape my research focus—a gift of mentorship for which I am endlessly grateful.

My research centered on understanding the fracture characteristics of 3D-printed lattice metamaterials. Advances in manufacturing techniques, material synthesis, and microstructure design have opened up boundless possibilities in material design. One of the critical properties that can be fine-tuned through these innovations is fracture toughness, essential for structural applications. My work sought to explore how variables such as relative density and build orientation affect the fracture toughness of octet lattice metamaterials through experimental fracture testing.

I extend my sincerest gratitude to the Graduate School and the Graduate Dean Awards Advisory Panel for nominating me for the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools Distinguished Master’s Thesis Award. I would also like to thank the Mechanical Engineering Graduate Department for this honor. Special acknowledgment goes to my advisor, Dr. Susanta Ghosh, for his relentless support, passion for research, and invaluable mentorship. His guidance has been pivotal in shaping my thesis and deepening my understanding of the field. I am truly fortunate to have had the chance to learn from him. Additionally, I want to express my appreciation to my committee members, collaborators, and lab team, whose support has been integral to my academic journey.