Prof. Guo: Validating a metal-plastic co-fabrication technique

Mechanical and Materials Engineering
Faculty Advisor
Qilin Guo
Contact Email qilin.guo@unl.edu
Website
Advisor College:
Engineering
Potential Student Tasks
  • Preparing simple test samples.
  • Assisting with basic 3D printing or material-processing experiments.
  • Taking photos or microscope images of samples.
  • Recording experimental observations in a lab notebook.
  • Organizing data and helping summarize results.
  • Participating in regular discussions with graduate students and the faculty advisor.
Student Qualifications
  • Interested in 3D printing, materials, lasers, or manufacturing.
  • Careful and responsible in the lab.
  • Willing to learn new experimental skills.
  • Comfortable taking notes and organizing data.
  • Able to work with graduate students and follow safety instructions.
Training, Mentoring, and Workplace Community

Weekly or biweekly meeting will be arranged between the student and the faculty advisor.
Available Positions
1

Our lab is developing new approaches for additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing. Most 3D printing systems are designed for only one class of material, such as metals, polymers, or ceramics. This limits the ability to make parts that combine different material properties in the same structure.

In this project, we will explore an early-stage idea for a more flexible 3D printing platform that could process more than one type of material. The student will help with simple validation experiments, sample preparation, imaging, data recording, and basic analysis.

This project is suitable for a first-year undergraduate student who is interested in hands-on research, materials, manufacturing, or 3D printing. No prior research experience is required. Training will be provided.