Masami Nakagawa, PhD

Nakagawa holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics from University of Minnesota and a Ph.D. in Theoretical Mechanics from Cornell University. Throughout his career, he has held various academic positions at institutions such as Tohoku University, the Colorado School of Mines, and Kyushu University. He has also served in governmental roles with the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, NASA, and the Fukushima Renewable Energy Laboratory.

For the past 15 years, Nakagawa has been actively involved in teaching, research, and community outreach in the field of geothermal resource development, with experience in the United States, Japan, Iceland, Bolivia, and El Salvador. His teaching approach in geothermal studies emphasizes the importance ofcommunity involvement throughout the development process, while maintaining a comprehensive technical understanding of geothermal resources. He advocates for resource development that benefits the communities affected by the projects. Nakagawa believes that the initial step, resource exploration, should engage not only qualified geologists but also the local community. By involving community members in every stage of development, including exploration, he aims to enhance transparency and increase community acceptance of geothermal projects.

Nakagawa is well-equipped to contribute both technical expertise and social engagement insight to the advancement of geothermal energy development in Rico a nd elsewhere through his international collaborations in research and education.