Dr. Thomas J Zolper

Dr. Zolper earned his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University and his Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Northern Illinois University.  His doctoral research focused on molecular rheology and tribological characterization of silicone-based polymers for Dow-Corning.  He performed additive research for Northwestern University, Ashland (Valvoline), and Argonne National Laboratory.  Dr. Zolper and his students have completed several projects for the United States Geological Survey to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.  He recently completed research on the viscoelastic properties of foamed dairy emulsions for the WI Dairy Innovation Hub.  Currently, he is conducting energy resilience research for the Thompson Center for Public Leadership.

Dr. Zolper has multiple publications and patents related to non-Newtonian fluids and machinery.  His research has been presented at meetings of ASME, STLE, and DIH.  Prior to joining UW-Platteville he worked as a design engineer and project manager in the diesel transport industry.