Education

• Ph.D., Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 1995
• M.E., Madras Institute of Technology, India, 1990
• B. Tech., Nagarjuna University, India, 1988

Teaching Interests

Professor Pucha’s teaching centers on design, mechanics, and advanced manufacturing, with a strong emphasis on integrating modern digital design tools into the learning experience. He teaches courses across engineering graphics and design, mechanics of materials, machine design, and manufacturing processes, guiding students in the use of CAD, simulation, digital prototyping, and additive manufacturing technologies.

His pedagogical approach is grounded in active, learner‑centered strategies that foster deep engagement. Through project‑based learning, peer mentorship, digital storytelling, and reflective practice, he creates environments where students connect theoretical concepts to real engineering challenges. By blending computational tools with hands‑on fabrication and iterative design, he equips students with the analytical, creative, and technical skills essential for innovation across the full product development lifecycle.

Research Interests

Professor Pucha’s research focuses on developing upfront computational tools that tightly integrate design, analysis, and manufacturing for advanced materials and engineered systems. His recent work centers on creating Integrated Analytical and CAD/CAE Tools (IntACT) for modeling and optimizing random heterogeneous materials across structural, and electronics applications. His contributions span special‑purpose finite elements for delamination analysis in laminated composites, microstructural simulations for impact‑damage prediction, design and optimization tools for composites in electronics, and integrated CAD/CAE frameworks for nano‑filler composite materials.

Recent Publications

• R Pucha, AS Jariwala, S Kundalia, PC Amballa, S Ross, WIP: Enhancing freshman students’ design experience through mentorship model, 2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, 2025
• R Pucha, S Kundalia, Students' appreciation for diversity through culture-inspired project activities, 2024 ASEE South East Section Meeting, Marietta, Georgia., 2024
• R Pucha, S Kundalia, V Sreenivasan, Socio-technical and culture-inspired projects in freshman engineering design course bring context and emotion to learning, 2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, 2024
• AS Jariwala, R Pucha, T Pleasant, S Kundalia, A Nolen, D Ranjan, Peer Mentorship Model to Enhance Design Engineering Education, 2023 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, 2023
• R Pucha, S Kundalia, CS Sullivan, Culture-inspired creative design projects increase students’ sense of belonging in freshman engineering design course, 2023 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, 2023