Elizabeth A. Burns, Ph.D., P.E.

Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) A. Burns is a metallurgical engineer with experience in manufacturing, materials processing, and failure analysis. She is proficient in leading and conducting metallurgical laboratory investigations and possesses significant hands-on experience with a variety of material characterization techniques, including cross-sectioning and metallography, optical microscopy, and electron microscopy. She has experience with many modes of failure, such as fracture, fatigue, corrosion, and wear, and she has conducted investigations involving a broad range of metal products, including castings, forgings, welded structures, electrical components, and beverage cans. Dr. Burns is also a Navy Reservist, currently enrolled in the Navy Reserve Engineering Duty Officer Qualification Program and supporting Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).

Prior to joining ESi, Dr. Burns was employed by The Boeing Company where she helped implement new metal alloys and manufacturing methods, including additive manufacturing, for commercial and defense applications. She is also familiar with industry specification development and qualification procedures for new materials and processes.

Dr. Burns completed her Ph.D. in metallurgical engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology while working part-time for The Boeing Company and supporting an industry consortium effort managed by the Air Force Research Laboratory. Her graduate research focused on using residual stress measurement techniques to better understand the effects of machining and hole drilling on fatigue life of metal aircraft components. Dr. Burns also held internships with GE Aviation and Alcoa Warrick Operations.