Yachao Chen
Yachao Chen joined the Department of Chemical Engineering in July 2024 as an Assistant Professor (Lecturer), where she teaches both undergraduate and graduate core courses. Before joining the U, she worked as a Teaching Assistant Professor at Kansas State University for five years. In addition to teaching, Chen serves as the Associate Director of Graduate Studies in the department, where she is dedicated to growing its Master’s program and strengthening its PhD program.
“What I enjoy most about my work is seeing students make meaningful progress in their academic journeys and develop into critical, independent thinkers,” she says.
David Wagner
David Wagner joined the Department of Chemical Engineering as an assistant professor (lecturing) on January 1, 2025. Before joining The University of Utah, he was an assistant professor at San Jose State University for five years, where he focused on energy, sustainability, and engineering education research. He directly advised 20 MS and 20 undergraduate students, as well as co-advised 17 MS students. This work yielded 11 conference presentations, three published articles, two manuscripts currently under review, and approximately ten more manuscripts in progress. In addition to teaching and advising, Wagner also serves as Assistant Director of the Utah Industrial Training and Assessment Center.