Professor Luke N. Brewer

Education

Ph. D. Materials Science and Engineering    2001
Northwestern University, Evanston, IL

Dissertation Title:  “Solid Solution Directionally Solidified Eutectics: Model Systems for Structure-Property Relationships in Interfacial Fracture”

B.S.E., Materials Science and Engineering; Applied Mathematics    1996
Northwestern University, Evanston, IL

Professional Experience

  • 2021-present: Professor, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL.
  • 2015-2021: Associate Professor, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL.
  • 2010-2015: Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA. 
  • 2004-2010: Principal Member of the Technical Staff at Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM.  
  • 2001-2004: Technical Staff Member at the GE Global Research Center, Niskayuna, NY.  

Honors and Awards

  • University of Alabama Outstanding Commitment to Teaching Award, 2021.
  • UA College of Engineering Faculty Excellence in Research and Innovation, 2021
  • Carl E. and Jessie W. Menneken Faculty Award for Excellence in Scientific Research, 2012.
  • Graduate School of Engineering and Applied Sciences Outstanding Teacher Award, 2012.
  • K.F.J. Heinrich Award from the Microanalysis Society, 2011.
  • Macres Award from the Microbeam Analysis Society for Best Instrumentation/Software Paper, 2002.
  • Presidential Student Award, Microscopy Society of America, 2000.
  • W.A. Sanderson Teaching Assistant of the Year Award, Materials Science & Engineering Department, Northwestern University,1998.
  • W.A. Sanderson Teaching Assistant of the Year Award, Materials Science & Engineering Department, Northwestern University, 1997.

Professional Societies

  • Microbeam Analysis Society
  • Microscopy Society of America
  • The Minerals, Metals, and Materials Society
  • American Welding Society

Personal Life

In his free time, Dr. Brewer most enjoys fitness. Here he is pictured cycling at the Cheaha Challenge on May 14th & 15th, 2022 in Jacksonville, Alabama. He also is an avid runner and competed in the San Diego Half Marathon on March 26, 2023.

Also pictured: PhD student Christopher Roper