Dr. Mircea Chipara is Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics and Geology. Dr. Mircea Chipara received his Ph.D. (Solid State Physics, 1996) from the Institute for Atomic Physics, Bucharest, Romania, his M.S. (Polymer Physics, 1977) from the University of Bucharest, Romania, and his B.S. (Physics, 1977) from the University of Bucharest, Romania.

The research areas of Dr. Mircea Chipara include preparation and characterization of nanomaterials, radiation-induced modifications in materials, polymer physics, magnetic resonances, negative index of refraction materials, and materials for space applications. The research of Dr. Mircea Chipara is focused on materials obtained by dispersing nanometer - sized particles with different physical properties (mechanical, optical, thermal, electrical, or magnetic) within polymeric matrices (nanocomposites). Such materials may exhibit multifunctional properties and may present smart capabilities. Due to their low weight and outstanding physical properties, nanocomposites have potential applications as space materials. The research of Dr. Mircea Chipara also includes a thorough investigation of the fundamental mechanisms and processes responsible for the degradation of polymers and polymer – based nanocomposites.

Before joining UTPA, Dr. Mircea Chipara worked as senior scientist at the National Institute for Materials Physics, as leader of the Radiation Effects Research Program at the Indiana University Cyclotron Facility, and as Associate Scientist within the Chemistry Department of the Indiana University (Bloomington).