Joseph Teran

Joseph M. Teran is an American professor of applied mathematics at the University of California, Davis. His research considers numerical methods for partial differential equations based on classical physics. His work spans applications in virtual surgery and movie special effects. Former students of Teran have taken roles including as associate professors at University of California, Los Angeles and software engineers at Disney.

Research
Teran's endeavors cover a broad spectrum of computational physics, including:


 * Computational solids and fluids
 * Multi-material interactions
 * Fracture dynamics
 * Simulation of dynamics of virtual materials such as skin/soft tissue, water, and smoke
 * Clothing and hair dynamics
 * Computational biomechanics

He played a role in simulating snow and ice in the film Frozen, collaborating with Disney's animators.

Recognition
Teran's accolades include:
 * 2012: Distinguished Alumni Scholar in Computer Science at Stanford University
 * 2011: Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers
 * 2010: Young Investigator Award from the Office of Naval Research
 * 2008: Recognized as one of the "20 Best Brains Under 40" by Discover Magazine