OU Engineering

University of Oklahoma engineering professor David Ebert, Ph.D., has secured a grant from the Department of Defense-supported System of Systems Consortium to spearhead a project titled “Intelligent Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) Industry Study.”  The $642,244 grant allows Ebert and a team of OU researchers to develop an AI-enhanced information search and risk analysis system, focused on evaluating supplier vulnerabilities and establishing risk indexes for U.S. Air Force suppliers. Working in close collaboration with the 448th Supply Chain Management Wing at Tinker Air Force Base, the project has been designated a priority.  “The pandemic has exposed the vulnerabilities and delays that can arise in the face of disruptions. With Tinker Air Force Base responsible for the maintenance of one-third of all U.S. Air Force aircraft, it is now more critical than ever to create an SCRM system capable of withstanding major disruptions while ensuring seamless delivery,” said Ebert wh...

Researchers discover chemical element boron species plays a key role in enhancing catalytic activity. A study by a team of University of Oklahoma researchers has been featured in Cell Reports Physical Science, an open-access journal highlighting cutting-edge research in the physical sciences.  The study,   “Cooperative roles of water and metal-support interfaces in the selective hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde over cobalt boride catalysts,” explores the role of water in the selective hydrogenation of carbonyl over alkene bonds. Utilizing cobalt and cobalt boride catalysts, OU researchers analyzed the hydrogenation of an organic compound called cinnamaldehyde. They discovered that the chemical element boron species plays a crucial role in enhancing catalytic activity and selectivity. “We want to mimic nature’s enzymes and learn more about what we can create synthetically. Our findings could have far-reaching implications in the production of industrial chemicals,” said th...

From left, SEI managing director Laura Champion, OU graduate students Richard Campos, Omar Yadak, Jacob Choate, and SEI president Don Scott.  University of Oklahoma’s Structural Engineering Institute was awarded the prestigious title of SEI Graduate Student Chapter of the Year by the American Society of Civil Engineers on May 6. The recognition comes almost four years after doctoral student Jake Choate was inspired to establish the institute following his attendance at Structures Congress 2019. Under Choate’s leadership, the SEI has sought to create a new standard in student organizations. He and his classmates had three goals: eliminating hierarchical officer positions, forging partnerships with a wide range of student organizations beyond engineering clubs and dispelling the common misconception that engineers lack communication skills. The hard work and dedication of Choate and his classmates paid off, culminating in the recent award announcement  at Structures Congress 202...