Our Research Team

Dr. Zachary D. Asher

Zachary D. Asher, Ph.D, is director of the lab and an associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at Western Michigan University. His research interests are focused on a real world realization of energy efficient and autonomous vehicles. To execute on this vision he actively seeks collaboration with a wide variety of stakeholders in industry, government and academia. He earned a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from Colorado State University in May 2018, a M.S. in mechanical and aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs in 2012, and a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Colorado State University in May 2009. He also worked full time in engineering industry from 2009 to 2015.

Dr. Nicholas E. Brown

Nic Brown, Ph.D., is senior research associate and executive director of the EEAV Lab, focusing on pioneering the development, testing and analysis of cutting-edge autonomous vehicle systems. These systems are designed to usher in a transformative era in transportation, with a core emphasis on energy efficiency, safety and sustainability. In conjunction with a multidisciplinary team, Brown leads efforts to create and refine advanced algorithms, sensor technologies and control systems, enabling autonomous vehicles to navigate complex urban environments with unparalleled efficiency. By optimizing energy consumption, minimizing carbon emissions and integrating renewable energy sources into the autonomous vehicle ecosystem, the team's research will establish a foundation for sustainable transportation solutions. Brown also actively engages in securing research grants, fostering collaborations and setting industry standards, cementing the lab's pivotal role in shaping the future of autonomous transportation through innovative and energy-efficient technologies.

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Dr. Johan Fanas Rojas

Johan Fanas, Ph.D., is senior research associate at WMU and holds the pivotal rol of engineering lead at Revision Autonomy, where he leads the development of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and connected autonomous vehicles (CAV) solutions tailored for snow-covered roads. He earned his PH.D. in mechanical engineering from WMU. Fanas has garnered expertise in developing new metrics for enhancing autonomous vehicles operations through the applications of systems engineering methods. His dedication to advancing the field is evident in his dual roles, seamlessly integrating research and practical solutions in thrive innovation in the realm of autonomous mobility. 

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