Introducing Dr. Murali Rajagopalan, the new CHMI Program Manager at ISyE, renowned for his expertise in polymers and leadership roles within the Society of Plastics Engineers, with a passion for innovation and teaching. 

Q: Please share some information about your background. Where did you study, or specialize in?  

A: I received my doctoral degree in polymer science from McGill University, focusing on functional materials involving ion-containing polymers and high-temperature fuel cell membranes under the supervision of the late Professor Adi Eisenberg. 

Q: What is your previous experience in the field?  

A: I have extensive experience in the polymer industry, having worked at BF Goodrich in PVC ionomers, TPU, PVC/CPVC, and PVC composites for applications in computer housing, telecommunications, medical devices, and wire and cable. Later, I served as the Director of Golf Ball R&D's Materials Research group and Quality Assurance at Titleist Acushnet company for 28 years, contributing significantly to the research, development, and commercial launch of numerous golf balls. 

Roles/Workplace:  

A: My roles have spanned from research and development to leadership positions in various organizations, including BF Goodrich and Titleist Acushnet. I have also served as a board member for the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) since 1990 and held leadership positions within the organization. 

Organizations:  

A: I have been actively involved in the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE), serving in leadership capacities such as past EPSDIV Board Chair, Co-TPC chair, and board member. Additionally, I have been engaged with the National Textile Committee, UMass Dartmouth’s Textiles/Materials Science department as an Adjunct Professor, and Illinois Institute of Technology’s Biological and Chemical Sciences department as an Advisory Board Member. 

Awards:  

A: I am honored to have received the Society of Plastic Engineers (SPE)'s prestigious 2010 Research and Engineering Technology Award and was elected as a Fellow of the Society of Plastics Engineers in 2006. Furthermore, I am a solo or co-inventor of over 250 US Patents related to materials and design useful in various applications. 

Q: Tell us about the current position you’re in, & interest areas you’ll be focusing on: 

Research topics: A: Currently, I am actively involved in supporting the Industry-Mentor program, MSE-EAB activities, MSE – Open House, Senior Design Capstone projects, and teaching a graduate course in Polymer Communications. My research expertise lies in functional polymers, ionomers, soft materials, reactive alloys and blends, polymer composites, and thermoplastic and thermoset elastomers. 

Additional roles at GT: A: In addition to my research activities, I am also engaged in various activities within the MSE department at Georgia Tech, including supporting the Industry-Mentor program and teaching graduate courses. 

Q: What sparked your interest in engineering (and your research), and how did you decide to pursue it as a career? 

A: My interest in engineering and research stemmed from a fascination with materials and their applications. During my doctoral studies at McGill University, I was inspired by the potential of functional materials to solve real-world problems. This passion drove me to pursue a career in the polymer industry, where I could apply my expertise to develop innovative solutions across various sectors. 

Q: Outside of work, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy that might influence or complement your approach to life? 

A: Outside of work, I enjoy golfing, which not only provides relaxation but also serves as a source of inspiration for my research. The precision, materials, and engineering involved in golf ball design resonate with my professional interests and often provide valuable insights into my work.

Author: Nat M. Esparza