Matson Honored with ASGSR’s Founder Award

Professor Douglas Matson of the Department of Mechanical Engineering has been honored with the American Society for Gravitational and Space Research (ASGSR)’s Founder Award—the highest honor given by the society. He was recognized for his outstanding contributions to and leadership within the field of gravitational and space science.  

Matson, who holds a primary appointment in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and a secondary appointment in the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life, has been advancing the science of engineered materials at Tufts University for over 20 years. His work focuses on the production, processing, and manufacturing of metal, plastic, ceramic, and biomaterial products. For example, his research includes modeling the evaporation of melting alloys in space to protect facility and human health, along with investigating how metals solidify to develop more reliable materials. He’s also passionate about training students to become leaders in the field of materials science. 

Matson was also honored by the ASGSR as a 2021 Fellow and has received recognition from other organizations including the American Society for Materials, the German Materials Society, and the International Space Station National Laboratory. He received his M.S. in materials science from the University of California, Davis and his Ph.D. in materials engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His work helps to advance the development and manufacturing of crucial materials in today's world, from spaceships to computers.  

The ASGSR is an organization that fosters research, education, and professional development in the fields of physical sciences and gravitational life sciences research. Founded in 1984, the members—representing academia, government, and industry—are bonded by a common interest of studying how organisms and physical systems respond to changes in gravity conditions.  

Learn more about Professor Doug Matson.