Dr. Christopher Jenkins is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Head of the Mechanical & Industrial Engineering Department at Montana State University. Dr. Jenkins has a B.S. in physics from Florida Institute of Technology, and an M.S. and Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from Oregon State University. He has published over 150 papers in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings, authored or edited 5 books (including a textbook), is a registered engineer in 4 states, and is an Associate Fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. While at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, he established the Compliant Structures Laboratory, a nationally recognized leader in ultra-lightweight and flexible structures technology. His current professional interests include biologically-inspired design, integration of mechanics materials-design, and ultra-lightweight structures technology. Dr. Jenkins consults for the Air Force Research Lab, NASA, and several industrial partners. Current and recent past research projects include: •“Nanofiber Nano composites for Novel Space Mirror Backing Structure,” AFR •“Intelligent Passive Damping of Membrane Space Structures,” AFRL •“Self-Repair of Space Structures,” AFR •“Matched and Ultra-Low CTE Optical Materials ,” MDA •“Mirror Backing Structures: Novel Resins for Aerospace Applications,” AFRL •“Advanced Smart Structures, AFRL •“Nano-Gradient Adhesive Joints,” AFRL •“Optical Diagnostics Systems for Solar Sails,” NASA •“Advanced Computational Methods for Solar Sails,” NASA.