Cristian Birzer

Dr Cristian Birzer is a mechanical engineer and Senior Research Associate at the School of Mechanical Engineering and Centre for Energy Technology. His research fields are in fluid mechanics, combustion and laser diagnostics, with major foci on the optimisation of energy systems, renewable energy sources and emissions control and mitigation. Dr Birzer is currently co-supervising two Ph.D. students and seven honours students.

Dr Birzer has also worked as a consultant engineer for Vipac Engineers and Scientist and served in the Australian Defence Force for over 15 years, including deployments to East TImor and the Solomon Islands.

Becoming an engineer was almost a case of luck. Dr Birzer was initially interested in become a vet, but wanted to study in Adelaide, where they didn't have degrees in vet science. Unsure of what to do, he accepted the advice of his father and became a mechanical engineer.

After completing his engineering degree, Dr Birzer was awarded a scholarship to study a Ph.D. in experimental particle-laden jet flows. This provided Dr Birzer with a great opportunity to work in a cutting edge field of research, but also develop hands-on engineering skills.

In addition to his work as a researcher at the University of Adelaide and the Centre for Energy Technology, Dr Birzer is currently the Chair of Young Engineers Australia – SA, Division Committee Member, Engineers Australia – SA, Member of the 2012 Engineering Leadership Conference Organising Committee and President of the International Young Professionals Foundation. In this latter role he recently signed the “By 2015 Declaration” with 17 other members, including the Governor General of Australia, Ms Quentin Bryce, AC.

In addition, Dr Birzer volunteers as a tutor for refugees through the Australian Refugee Association. He is also a volunteer speaker for Speakers In Schools, in which he talks to students about working as an engineer.