Research and Teaching Interests

Dr. Taggart's research interests are in the areas of computational mechanics, finite element analysis, mechanics of materials, behavior of composite materials and abrasive waterjet machining. His research has included computational modeling of composite material behavior, experimental characterization of material response including static properties and impact response, ultrasonic non-destructive testing, acoustic emission testing, abrasive waterjet (AWJ) nozzle wear, and AWJ applications development. Recent work includes the development of numerical finite element based topological optimization schemes, finite element implementation of cardiac tissue constitutive behavior, investigation of the effect of geometric surface treatments of carbon fiber composites for use in reinforcing concrete, numerical modeling of metal matrix composite plasticity, numerical analysis of compressive failure of fiber reinforced composites, and characterization and modeling of AWJ nozzle wear. Dr. Taggart's teaching experience includes a variety of mechanics courses including statics, dynamics, finite element analysis, applications of mechanics in design, engineering mathematics, mechanics of composite materials, theory of elasticity, theory of plasticity, and micromechanics.

Professional Experience

Assistant / Associate / Full Professor, University of Rhode Island (1989-present); Visiting Scholar, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada (sabbatical leave 1998); Staff Engineer, Materials Sciences Corportation (1983-85); Research Engineer, Celanese Corporation (1981-82); Research Associate, University of Delaware Center for Composite Materials (1978-79).

Professional Memberships and Activities

American Society of Mechanical Engineers, American Society for Engineering Education, Waterjet Technology Association

Awards, Distinctions and Honorary Memberships

Edmund and Dorothy Marshall Faculty Excellence Award, 2001; ASME Providence Section Certificate of Recognition, 2000; ASME Student Section Advisor Certificate of Appreciation, 2000; Research Fellowship, University of Pennsylvania, 1986-88; Goodyear Fellowship, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1980; B.S. degree with Distinction and High Honors, 1978; TAU BETA PI and PHI KAPPA PHI honorary societies.