Vi Rapp
Vi Rapp
Bio
Dr. Vi Rapp is a problem-solving scientist who develops technology and software to improve human health. As a Research Scientist and Department Deputy, she leads and directs research on zero and low-carbon heat and power generation technologies. By fostering teamwork and creating productive environments, she advances scientific knowledge, while bringing technologies and projects to success. Her current projects include:
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leveraging machine learning to identify bio-derived molecules that can improve air quality and public health;
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developing novel technologies for CO2 free hydrogen production (Turquoise Hydrogen); and
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advancing heat and power technologies for the industrial and developing world such as, wood heaters, cookstoves, and a zero-electricity warmer for preventing neonatal hypothermia.
Dr. Rapp received her Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley with a focus on advanced internal combustion engines and alternative fuels. Prior to her PhD, she worked in aerospace conducting thermal and stress analysis on primary flight control actuators for the Boeing 787 and other commercial aircraft.
Awards
Spot: Vi Rapp - March 29th 2021
CHP Decarbonization Memo
Honorable Mention: 2020 Patents for Humanity - November 03rd 2020
The Warming Indicator, a phase-change material temperature indicator that improves the Infant Warmer's functionality and safety, was recently recognized with an honorable mention in the 2020 Patents for Humanity awards. The Infant Warmer is a low-cost, convenient, re-usable, and non-electric wrap-around pad that maintains a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, the average human core temperature) for approximately six hours for a newborn infant. Both technologies are being licensed to a non-profit for scale up in Africa.