An expert in wood science and forest products provides expert witness services in matters involving wood performance, coatings, and material durability. With more than 25 years of experience, this expert has been engaged in consulting and deposition work related to the evaluation of coated wood systems, product performance, and material behavior under environmental conditions. Their work involves analyzing how chemical composition, treatment methods, and environmental exposure affect the integrity and longevity of wood products, particularly in applications such as decking and engineered wood systems.

The expert serves as an Associate Professor with a joint appointment in the Departments of Forestry and Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, where their research focuses on the development of biobased coatings, adhesives, foams, and composite materials using lignin as a replacement for petroleum-based components. Their work includes evaluating coating performance, weathering behavior, UV degradation, and adhesion properties, as well as assessing durability and degradation mechanisms in engineered wood products and mass timber applications.

Technical expertise includes wood protection, adhesive formulation, polymer chemistry, and performance evaluation of wood-based materials, including oil-heat treated wood and advanced biobased systems. The expert has served as principal investigator on numerous industry- and government-funded research projects involving coatings, adhesives, and sustainable materials, collaborating with major organizations across the coatings, automotive, and forest products industries.

Educational background includes a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Wood Science and a Bachelor of Applied Chemistry. Professional involvement includes participation in organizations such as the American Chemical Society, ASTM coating committees, and the Forest Products Society, along with contributions to standards development and technical review. The expert has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, holds multiple patents, and has received industry recognition for innovations in replacing petroleum-based components with lignin in adhesive and resin systems.