Rodrigo Ristow Hadlich Successfully Defends PhD Dissertation on AI-Driven Engine Optimization
The Department of Mechanical Engineering congratulates Rodrigo Ristow Hadlich on successfully defending his doctoral dissertation, "A Data-Driven Framework for Modeling and Reinforcement Learning Optimization of Methanol
Partially Premixed Combustion."
Hadlich's research explores new ways to make vehicle engines cleaner, more efficient, and easier to optimize for low-carbon fuels. His work combines advanced engine experiments with artificial intelligence to improve how next-generation engines are designed and controlled.
The dissertation introduces an innovative framework that uses deep learning to create a highly accurate digital model of an engine and reinforcement learning to identify optimal control strategies. By testing these approaches with methanol, a renewable, low-carbon fuel, Hadlich demonstrated how artificial intelligence can significantly reduce the time and resources required to calibrate complex engine control systems while maintaining high efficiency and near-zero emissions.
The research offers a practical roadmap for accelerating the development of advanced combustion technologies that support cleaner transportation. Beyond improving engine performance, the framework provides valuable tools for researchers and engineers working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and advance sustainable propulsion systems.
Reflecting on his time at Stony Brook University and the journey that led to his doctoral degree, Hadlich shared:
"Having completed my undergraduate, master’s, and PhD degrees at Stony Brook University, this place feels like home to me. Looking back, I'm grateful for everything I learned here and for the people who were part of that journey. The experiences I had throughout my time at Stony Brook helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I feel well prepared for whatever comes next."
Hadlich’s faculty advisor, Dimitris Assanis, reflected on his doctoral journey and praised his drive, intelligence, perseverance, and pioneering work in engine control and low-carbon combustion:
“Rodrigo was truly an exemplary student, charting a path in new territories of engine control and exploring everything from biofuels and alcohols to hydrogen and ammonia combustion. He was attracted to the laboratory setting to challenge himself and he extracted as much value as he could out of his experience. It has been a true honor and pleasure to accomplish the things we did together. I am certain Rodrigo will keep accomplishing great things with his drive, intelligence and perseverance"
Congratulations again to Dr. Rodrigo Ristow Hadlich on this outstanding achievement, and best wishes for continued success in his future research and career.