Sam Jiun-Wei Hu

From an early age, I was captivated by the intricate dance of fluids and the transfer of heat, observing phenomena like the jet propulsion of cephalopods and the chaotic bouncing of droplets on soap films. This curiosity blossomed into a lifelong passion for thermo-fluid science, a passion that has guided my academic and professional pursuits across the disciplines of mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, and environmental engineering.

My academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, where I delved into the fundamental mechanisms of constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment, laying the foundation for my understanding of fluid dynamics and transport processes. Driven by a desire to explore this field further, I pursued a master’s degree in mechanical engineering with a concentration in thermo-fluid science. My master’s thesis focused on the application of hybrid solar-wind power systems and shallow geothermal systems to net-zero energy plant factories, merging my passion for renewable energy with my expertise in fluid and heat transfer.

Although my initial pursuit of a PhD in chemical engineering, specializing in sustainable thermal energy systems and geothermal energy, was interrupted, my commitment to this field remained unwavering. I continued to forge ahead, conducting research on sustainable district energy systems that integrate fluctuating renewable energy, large-scale geothermal heat pumps, and underground thermal energy storage into future intelligent thermal grids. My published works on shallow geothermal energy systems, plant factories, waste heat recovery, and techno-economic assessments of enhanced geothermal systems reflect my dedication to advancing sustainable thermal solutions.