A. J. Durelli Award

A.J. Durelli was one of the most outstanding experimental stress analysts in the world during the second half of twentieth century.Known primarily for his work in brittle lacquer techniques, photoelasticity, and moiré methods, throughout his career, Dr. Durelli consistently sought out new methods to solve problems rather than to solve new problems with existing methods. He often challenged his students and colleagues to view the world from a different perspective, and bestowed on our Society some of its greatest gifts – productive, caring, and competent people.

The purpose of this award is to recognize a young professional who has introduced, or helped to introduce, an innovative approach and/or method into the field of experimental mechanics. The individual’s contribution shall be distinguished in that it departs from the norm and/or challenges the existing train of thought in the Society.

The award in question is designed to recognize a relatively young individual for distinguished, innovative work in experimental mechanics; one of the qualities that A.J. recognized and instilled so well in others.

(1) The recipient should be recognized for a contribution early in their career. 

(2) S/he must have introduced, or helped to introduce, an innovative approach and/or method into the field of experimental mechanics. Any area qualifies.

(3) The individual’s contribution shall be distinguished in that it departs from the norm and/or challenges the existing train of thought in the Society.

(4) The recipient should be a member of SEM but need not have held any prior leadership position in the Society. 

Initially, this award was intended to be presented every two years.  In 2009 the Honors Committee recommended that this award be presented annually and this change was approved by the Executive board in June 2009.

Cosme Furlong received his B.Eng. from the University of the Americas, Mexico, in 1989, and his M.S. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in 1992 and 1999, respectively. He held the positions of Research Professor and Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at WPI where he currently is a tenured Associate Professor working in the field of Nanoengineering, Science, and Technology (NEST). His professional interests and involvement include: combination of modeling and simulation with quantitative optical metrology, fiber optics sensors, optoelectronic holography, NDT, materials characterization, and optimization of mechanical and microelectromechanical components and systems.

He has received multiple awards, including the Sigma Xi Junior Researcher Faculty, the Morgan Distinguished Instructorship, and he has been named a research affiliate of the Department of Otology and Laryngology at the Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary (MEEI) and a Lecturer on Otology and Laryngology at Harvard Medical School.

He is the author of more than 100 technical publications and he actively participates in multiple SEM related activities, including the organization of technical sessions and international conferences and symposia.