Dr. Quinn is a professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at Colorado State University and the Operating Director of the Energy Institute at Colorado State University. His education and research have always been centered on energy, with current work focused on techno-economic assessment, life cycle assessment, and system optimization. This skill set is currently being applied to a variety of emerging technologies including microalgae biofuels, desert southwest agriculture, small modular nuclear systems, electrified transportation, waste to energy, and electrical grid energy storage. Research efforts are dedicated to the development of engineering system models validated through experimentation and leveraged for techno-economic feasibility, life cycle assessment, and resource demand of emerging technologies.  Results from modeling work are used to focus research and development efforts to high impact areas.  Dr. Quinn completed a master’s degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in nuclear engineering and engineering physics, and a Ph.D. at Colorado State University.