EVERYTHING
Boston University has appointed Keith Brown, an associate professor specializing in mechanical engineering, materials science and engineering, and physics, as the head of the Division of Materials Science & Engineering (MSE). According to Bu, this appointment succeeds David Bishop, who stepped down after 15 years leading the division. The MSE is structured to support convergent research across diverse fields, including advanced materials, nanotechnology, energy, health, and manufacturing.
Pioneering AI in Material Discovery
Brown brings extensive experience in leading collaborative work that bridges multiple scientific disciplines. His research portfolio spans polymers, smart fluids, additive manufacturing, machine learning, and autonomous experimentation. He has been recognized nationally for his contributions, including receiving a Google Faculty Research Award and the College of Engineering’s Early Career Research Excellence Award.
At Boston University, Brown established KABlab, where he and collaborators have pioneered "self-driving labs." These advanced facilities integrate robotics, additive manufacturing, and artificial intelligence to significantly increase both the speed and scale of materials science experimentation. His academic background is robust, holding a bachelor’s degree in physics from MIT and both master’s and PhD degrees in applied physics from Harvard University.
The Interdisciplinary Scope of MSE
The Division of MSE functions as an interdisciplinary hub, drawing participation from faculty across the College of Engineering, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Henry M Goldman School of Dental Medicine. Beyond catalyzing new research, the division is committed to education, offering a range of academic programs designed to prepare students for future technological demands.
- The MSE offers master’s degree programs and a PhD program in materials science.
- Students can also pursue an undergraduate minor within the division.
- Its mission is focused on developing next-generation materials that solve real-world global challenges.
Building Upon a Legacy of Collaboration
Brown takes over from David Bishop, a distinguished scientist whose career spanned academia and industry. During his 15 years at MSE, Bishop was instrumental in shaping the division into a highly collaborative research community. He secured large grants and expanded resources for intensive MSE research, while also significantly growing the master’s degree program.
As division head, Brown intends to sustain this strong culture of collaboration across the materials field. He stated that he is "incredibly excited and honored to have the opportunity to lead the MSE division,