CEA names associate dean for research, graduate ed

David Field, WSU College of Engineering and Architecture
Field

PULLMAN, Wash. – David Field was recently named associate dean for research and graduate education in the Washington State University College of Engineering and Architecture.

Field came to WSU in 2000 and is a professor and interim director in the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering. With experience working at TexSEM Laboratories and Alcoa Technical Center, Field brings an understanding of industry and academia to his new role.
“As I take the position, I recognize some issues that can be changed for the better, including the need for support personnel and a stronger research infrastructure,” he said.
“I will continue to push for these issues to be priorities in the college and at the university to provide the best chance for our faculty and graduate students to be successful in their research,” he said.
Field’s research interests include physical and mechanical metallurgy, metal deformation and recrystallization, and grain boundary structure. He has supported undergraduate research by helping to develop the Cougar Undergraduate Research Experience and acting as a mentor for several undergraduate research projects.
This year he was named a fellow of ASM International (the society for materials scientists and engineers) and has publications in journals such as the Journal of Engineering Materials and Technology. He received the Excellence in Teaching Award from the WSU School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering three times and has been an invited lecturer at universities all over the world.

Originally from Laramie, Wyo., Field pursued his bachelor’s in mechanical engineering at the University of Wyoming, his master’s at Brigham Young University and his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering at Yale.

“I’m pleased to welcome Dr. Field as associate dean,’’ said Candis Claiborn, college dean. “Not only is he a successful researcher who is well known in his field, but he has also provided valuable service to the college in a number of roles, including in undergraduate research support and as interim director of the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering.
“I look forward to his support in helping to successfully grow our research and graduate programs,’’ she said.
Field replaces Indranath Dutta who has returned to his faculty position in the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering.