Parker LaMascus has successfully completed his doctoral dissertation, “Tribosintering of Metal Oxide Nanocrystals,” working under the guidance of Robert Carpick, John Henry Towne Professor in MEAM.
LaMascus investigated metal oxide nanocrystals as innovative lubricant additives, addressing critical challenges in mechanical system protection. “Machinery relies on lubrication to regulate friction and wear at contacting interfaces,” he explains. “As lubricants become less viscous to save energy and cost, and as new technologies like electric vehicles operate in harsher conditions, the risk of surface-initiated failure grows.”
The research revealed novel approaches to mitigating wear and friction, highlighting the advantages of metal oxide tribofilms over existing antiwear additives. “Compared to state-of-the-art surface coatings, these tribofilms offer significant benefits, but a lack of fundamental knowledge has hindered their adoption,” LaMascus notes.
Reflections
LaMascus’ doctoral experience spanned five and a half years, encompassing personal growth and navigating a pandemic. “My PhD was just another facet of capital-L Life,” he reflects. “Penn is interwoven in so much of this phase of my life – the friends, the freedom to pursue interests, and the city I’ve grown to love.”
Memorable moments included lab practical jokes, conference travels, and observing seasonal changes. “Maybe a little quotidian to an outsider, but again, that’s the stuff life is made out of,” he adds.
Advice and Book Recommendations
LaMascus emphasizes that a PhD’s true goal is personal transformation. “The most important question is: what manner of researcher ought you become?” He recommends three books to get you started:
- The Origins of Modern Science by Ofer Gal
- Work Won’t Love You Back by Sarah Jaffe
- American Genesis by Thomas P. Hughes