Dr. Graeve, Professor of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering at UC San Diego, researches the fundamental principles of materials processing with specific engineering needs with special emphasis on electromagnetic multifunctional materials for sensors and energy applications.

Specific areas of concentration are fundamental studies of colloidal systems for the preparation of ceramic and metallic nanoparticles of unique morphologies; the effect of crystallite size and particle size on the sintering behavior of nanopowders and amorphous-metal / nanocrystalline-ceramic composites; luminescence responses of doped oxide ceramics; morphological effects on the behavior of metal-based nanofluids for thermal energy dissipation;and processing of hexaboride and carbide materials for electro-optics (neutron detection), hydrogen storage, and high-temperature sensor applications. Dr. Graeve has received numerous grants for her work, as well as awards including the Jaime Oaxaca Award, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (2011), Karl Schwartzwalder Professional Achievement in Ceramic Engineering (PACE) Award, American Ceramic Society (2010), and an NSF CAREER Award (2007). Dr. Graeve is also the PI on an NSF-funded project, “Enabling Participation of Hispanic Students in SHPE 2011 Graduate Activities.” Dr. Graeve received a Ph.D. from UC Davis in Material Science and Engineering.