Ryan’s research focuses on the integration of advanced materials with computational design (such as topology optimization) to enable future JPL flight missions. His background is in the experimental characterization and theoretical modeling of shape memory alloys, having received his Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan in 2015. While at JPL, he has worked on flight projects as a Structural Analyst and a Cognizant Engineer, leading the design, build, test, and integration of launch restraint hardware for the SWOT and NISAR missions. His current role as a Technologist focuses on generalizing topology optimization to complex material systems (such as gradient alloys and shape memory alloys), additively manufacturing and modeling lattice structures, and 3D printing shape memory alloy systems. He is the lead developer of UnitcellHub, a first-of-its-kind lattice simulation and design tool that was runner-up in JPL's Software of the Year competition. Additionally, he works to develop and foster JPL’s topology optimization capabilities, mentoring new practitioners, integrating the workflow into flight project practices, and engaging with the broader topology optimization community.