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Carlos Portela is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the California Institute of Technology, where he also completed his M.S. in the same field. Earlier, he earned a B.A. in Physics from the University of Southern California and a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering. Portela is recognized for his contributions to architected materials, nanomechanics, and metamaterials. His research endeavors encompass a variety of aspects within the mechanics of design, controls, and bioengineering, focusing on innovative solutions for energy and ocean applications. His work has earned him several accolades, including the Junior Bose Award in 2024 and recognition as part of the MIT Tech Review’s 35 Innovators Under 35 in 2022, along with the NSF's Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Award.