Dr. Joseph D. Smith Smith currently holds the Laufer Endowed Energy Chair in the Biological and Chemical Engineering department at Missouri University of Science and Technology (MS&T). His research program is focused on developing and evaluating novel Hybrid Energy Systems to improve energy security and enhance rural econommic development. Dr. Smith also conducts research on reducing the environmental impact of using unconventional hydrocarbon resources. He has over 25 years experience in the Fossil-Fired Power Industries with a speciality in the application of comprehensive CFD analysis of coal combustion and gasification aimed at reducing CO/NOx emissions, minimizing fouling and slagging, and improving combustion efficiency by lowering Carbon in Ash. Dr. Smith serves as an expert witness in cases involving gas flaring and other combustion technology