Villanova University
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
Expected 2028
Villanova, PA
Shashwat Maharjan
PhD Candidate, Mechanical Engineering
Villanova University
Education
Central Michigan University
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
2024
Mount Pleasant, MI
Experience
Geologica Geothermal Group
Research Intern
May 2023 – April 2024
San Diego, CA
- Optimized Volsung automation with Python, reducing processing time by 70% and enabling faster decision-making for geothermal field assessments.
- Built TensorFlow ML models for static formation temperature estimation, boosting accuracy by 35% to improve drilling safety.
- Modeled a generalized geothermal well to simulate subsurface heat transfer and fluid flow, creating a scalable framework for project evaluation.
Brown University
Neuroscience Research Intern
May 2022 – Aug 2022
Providence, RI
- Automated data analysis by developing MATLAB and Python scripts, reducing manual processing time by 80%.
- Applied advanced signal processing on high-resolution sensor data, doubling data throughput and accuracy.
- Achieved 1ms verification accuracy for neurophysiological results, boosting experimental reliability by 25%.
Selected Projects
Bio-Inspired Dental Composites Simulation
Abaqus Python MATLAB
Designing functionally graded interfaces between ceramic and polymer layers to reduce interfacial stresses and enhance the durability of dental restorations, inspired by the natural dento-enamel junction between the enamel and dentin in human teeth.
Developing a Stress Fracture Risk Prediction Tool
Abaqus ScanIP ImageJ
Developing an athlete-specific tibial stress fracture risk prediction pipeline that combines baseline CT-derived geometry, image-based finite element simulations, and a trained machine learning model to quickly estimate stress/strain at common fracture sites.
Selected Publications
- Kim, B., Maharjan, S., Guidio, B., Thomas, J., Pranto, F. M., Schaal, C., & Jeong, C. (2026). "Elastodynamic imaging of voids in a PML-truncated layered solid using a deep convolutional neural network." Engineering Geology. Paper
- Maharjan, S., Guidio, B., & Jeong, C. (2024). "Convolutional neural network for identifying effective seismic force at a DRM layer for rapid reconstruction of SH ground motions." Earthquake Engineering & Structural Dynamics. Paper
- Maharjan, S., Guidio, B., Fathi, A., & Jeong, C. (2022). "Deep and Convolutional Neural Networks for Identifying Vertically Propagating Incoming Seismic Wave Motion into a Heterogeneous, Damped Soil Column." Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering. Paper
Selected Awards
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DOE/NSF INTERN Research Grant $110,000 Funding2023 – 2024 | U.S. Dept. of Energy & NSF
Two consecutive competitive grants ($55k each) for industry research internships at Geologica Geothermal Group. -
Outstanding Undergraduate Student of the Year $2,500 Funding2022 | Engineering Society of Detroit (ESD) — Selected as the top undergraduate engineering student in the state of Michigan for academic excellence and professional service.