Ara Kim
Credentials: Professional Development Committee Co-chair - UWPA 2025
Position title: Postdoctoral Research Associate
Email: akim244@wisc.edu
Hello! I am a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Thevamaran Lab in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. My research focuses on the dynamic response of functional materials under extreme conditions, with particular emphasis on impact mitigation performance. Before joining UW–Madison, I earned my Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Outside of research, I am passionate about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, I train regularly and occasionally teach as a per-diem coach. I also enjoy spending time with good friends.
As a co-chair of the Professional Development Committee, my goal is to create engaging activities that promote the mutual growth of all postdocs in both academic and industry careers through informative, inclusive, and supportive programs. Please feel free to reach out if you’d like to discuss career development or get involved in our initiatives.