Francisco Cepeda
Assistant Professor,
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Oakland University
Francisco Cepeda
Assistant Professor,
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Oakland University
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Assistant Professor,
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Oakland University
I am an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Oakland University and the founder of the E-Carbon Lab. My research sits at the intersection of combustion science, materials engineering, and clean energy. I focus on electrified thermal processes and methane pyrolysis as scalable routes for hydrogen production, while also exploring how to tailor the solid carbon byproducts for high-value applications.
My approach combines experimental diagnostics, computational fluid dynamics, and population balance modeling of particle formation to connect fundamental mechanisms with reactor and system-level design. Over the years, I have collaborated with research groups in North America, Europe, and Latin America on combustion diagnostics, carbon nanomaterials, and sustainable energy conversion.
Opportunities
I am currently seeking a highly motivated PhD student whose background and interests align with some of our research directions in thermochemical energy conversion, methane pyrolysis, or carbon materials. Strong preparation in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or materials science — especially with experience in combustion, catalysis, thermal systems, CFD, or particle modeling — will be a good fit. If you are interested in pursuing doctoral research in these areas, please get in touch with me directly at franciscocepeda@oakland.edu. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and value diverse perspectives in our group.
Motivated OU undergraduate students are welcome to participate in research projects in the E-Carbon Lab. If you are curious about clean energy, advanced materials, or computational modeling, there are opportunities to get involved at many levels.
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