Fire Science

Every year, fires kill more than 150,000 people in the world. But scientists still don’t know enough about the science of fire. “As an engineer I try to make sure our knowledge can be used for the benefit of society,” says Guillermo Rein, Professor of Fire Science. “I’m happy if our research leads to new technologies that might truly help save lives and protect the environment.”

Professor Guillermo Rein’s research is centred on heat transfer, combustion and fire. The purpose of his work is to reduce the worldwide burden of accidental fires and protect people, their property, and the environment.

His research portfolio is ample, but over the last 15 years he is best known in three areas: 1) how polymers and wood ignite so we can avoid fires from starting; 2) how engineers can design better structures that resist fire; and 3) how wildfires spread and how to fight them. He has been featured in international media (e.g. Financial Times, BBC Radio, New York Times). He appeared in the 2017 documentaries ‘Titanic: the New Evidence’ and ‘The Great Fire of London: In Real Time’.

Registration is now closed. Add event to calendar
See all events