This month, we sat down with Michael Kilbey, chair of the AIChE Materials Engineering and Science Division (MESD), and Joe Elabd, vice chair of MESD, to discuss opportunities this Division offers.
Tell us a little about your Division.
The Materials Engineering and Sciences Division (MESD) was established in 1968 to provide a focal point within the AIChE for engineers concerned with materials. Since its founding, MESD has organized and presented hundreds of technical symposia on a wide variety of materials topics at national AIChE meetings. Reflecting the interdisciplinary character of materials technology, many of these have involved co-sponsorship with other AIChE divisions and forums, as well as other national technical societies.
The MESD (Division 8 within AIChE) encompasses five main areas of materials engineering and science: Polymers (8A), Biomaterials (8B), Inorganic Materials (8D), Electronic Materials (8E) and Composites (8F). More information about MESD can be found on the Division homepage on the AIChE website.
What benefits have you received from becoming a member of this Division?
Being a member of MESD has kept us connected to a large community of chemical engineers active in the materials area. There are many ways that materials have a significant impact on chemical engineering and chemical processes, and being connected to other professionals in this area who are practicing in industry, academia, and national laboratories has advanced our careers through networking and collaborations.
What opportunities are available for members to get involved? What is a good way for Young Professional Members to get started?
The best start is to attend one of our many technical sessions at the AIChE Annual Meeting. Specifically, we offer a MESD plenary symposium on Wednesday morning that showcases the cutting-edge research from the breadth of materials engineering and science. Many of the areas also have plenary sessions that are more focused. You should always feel welcome to submit an abstract to present a poster or talk in whatever area fits your research interest. Also, by attending any of our Area business meetings (i.e.,, Area 8A, 8B, 8D, 8E or 8F) you have the opportunity to meet leaders in the field, become acquainted with programming activities, and even get involved by volunteering to be a session chair/co-chair.
When does this Division hold events or meetings?
We meet at the AIChE Annual Meeting. As a Division, MESD convenes a business meeting at the Annual Meetings and also conducts business via a summer teleconference. The most relevant meetings for members who wish to get involved in MESD are the Area business meetings, which are Tuesday evenings, shortly after the late afternoon symposia wrap-up.
How does someone become a member?
To become a member of MESD, you click the “Join” button on our MESD website and add MESD dues to our AIChE membership. Division dues are only $10!
Who can I contact with any questions or to get more involved?
Contact any of the division officers listed on the MESD website.