Burak Kara is a Professor in Mechanical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University, with a courtesy appointment in the Robotics Institute. He serves as Associate Head for Academic Planning. His research combines machine learning, optimization, and geometric modeling to develop computational tools for design and manufacturing. Applications include CAD, topology optimization, additive manufacturing, electronics design, and bio-engineering. He has pioneered methods like deep learning for structural simulation and design automation. He received the NSF CAREER Award and ASME Design Automation Young Investigator Award. He teaches AI, machine learning, and engineering design courses. He earned his Ph.D. from Carnegie Mellon University.