Dr. Thomas Kenny

Professor

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Biography

Thomas Kenny is the Richard W. Weiland Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Senior Associate Dean for Education in Student Affairs at Stanford University. His research focuses on the fundamental issues and applications of micromechanical structures. Kenny's group fabricates devices from silicon wafers using advanced integrated circuit fabrication tools, leading to the development of sensitive accelerometers, infrared detectors, and force-sensing cantilevers. Research applications span integrated packaging and inertial measurement, as well as experiments involving biomolecules, device cooling, bio-analytical instruments, and small robotics. His work demonstrates a strong multidisciplinary nature, characterized by collaborative efforts across various departments and partnerships with local industry. Kenny has received numerous awards for his contributions to engineering education and research, including membership in the National Academy of Engineering. He currently holds fellowships such as the Paul Davies Family University Fellow for Undergraduate Education and has held several leadership roles in professional organizations.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

1995-01-01 — Present

Stanford University • Stanford, California

Teaching and researching in the fields of mechanical engineering and micromechanical structures.

Senior Associate Dean for Education

2015-01-01 — Present

Stanford University • Stanford, California

Overseeing educational programs and student affairs within the School of Engineering.

Awards

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Member

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President's Award for Excellence in Diversity

#

Tau Beta Pi Teaching Honor Roll

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Daniel Noble Award for Emerging Technologies

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Technical Achievement Award

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Secretary of Defense Award for Exceptional Public Service

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CAREER Award

Patents

Targeting Microbubbles

10,149,906 2018-12-10

Patent for methods involving targeting microbubbles.

Cooling Systems Incorporating Heat Exchangers and Thermoelectric Layers

8,464,781 2013-07-18

Patent concerning innovative cooling systems.

Adhesive Microstructure Method for Forming Regents

6,737,160

Patent for methods related to adhesive microstructures.

Courses

ENGR 193 EE 118 APPPHYS 291 AA 190 APPPHYS 290 AA 199 ENGR 199W ME 220 ENGR 1

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.