Colin Slunecka’s interest in academic research began as an undergrad at University of South Dakota (USD) where he first studied the up-converting luminescent properties, and later the improved synthesis of lanthanide based nanoparticles. During his time at USD he also completed a summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) at the Texas A&M University Biochemistry Department studying the genotypes of bioenergy sorghum crops. After graduating, Colin served seven years in the U.S. Army as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician. During his time in the Army working with bomb disposal robots and tools, he realized that he should have been a mechanical engineer all along. After leaving the Army, Colin and his wife decided to settle down in Fort Collins. 

 

Colin’s MECH 498 and subsequent thesis research involve characterizing the reactivity and combustion properties of various propane based fuel blends using a rapid compression machine. In his current role at CSU he supports the research projects and operation of the EECL, and also studies methane emissions from an abandoned coal mine near Redstone, Colorado. Colin enjoys camping, skiing, riding bikes with his kids, and running with his dogs.