Prof. Murphy earned his B.S. and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics from the University of Michigan and his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Duke University. His research focuses on nonlinear dynamics, vibrations and stability. But his work also touches on solid mechanics, fracture mechanics, and signal processing. He has been awarded a NASA GSRP Fellowship, a National Science Foundation CAREER Award, and several other competitive grants in support of his research program. He has also received several awards for distinguished teaching, in addition to being recognized by both branches of the Connecticut State Legislature for teaching excellence.