New Faculty Spotlight

Get to Know Assistant Professor Dr. Aaditya Khanal

KhanalGrowing up, Dr. Aaditya Khanal took an interest in physics, chemistry and mathematics. He found chemical engineering as a way to apply these subjects to help understand and solve real-world problems. While obtaining his doctorate degree, he was involved in studies that focused on the accurate forecasting of oil and gas production from shale reservoirs.

As the newest member of the College of Engineering faculty, Khanal is enthusiastic to join UT Tyler’s Jasper Department of Chemical Engineering and help develop future chemical engineers.

“We have a close-knit department that is focused on both student and faculty success,” said Khanal, who arrived in September 2020. “As a new faculty, I greatly appreciate the guidance from the department chair, Dr. Resende, and the members of the college.”

The city of Tyler also attracted Khanal to UT Tyler, he said, noting he was excited for the opportunity to not ony support a new chemical engineering program, but also work in a beautiful location close to major cities.

“My family and I love the Tyler area – it is like an oasis with so much greenery, lakes and opportunities for outdoor activities,” he added. 

Khanal’s area of research focuses on modeling the flow of oil and gas in unconventional reservoirs. He’s also interested in carbon dioxide capture and sequestration – a method of decreasing the amount of carbon dioxide in the amtopshere with the goal of reducing climate change. 

Where does Khanal see the industry going in the next 10 years? While he believes traditional chemical engineering will remain, the industry collectively will become more interdisciplinary, with a greater shift toward green and bio-based research areas, he said.

Khanal enjoys traveling, exploring new places, soccer and spending time with his family. He encourages students interested in chemical engineering to stop by his office for a chat.

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Learn more about the chemical engineering program.

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