R. Bryan Ormond

Bio

Dr. R. Bryan Ormond is an Assistant Professor jointly appointed in the Textile Engineering, Chemistry and Science Department and the Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC) in the Wilson College of Textiles. He is a 2023 Goodnight Early Career Innovator Award recipient and has also been inducted into both the Academy of Outstanding Teachers and Academy of Outstanding Faculty Engaged in Extension at NC State University.

Since 2007 Dr. Ormond has focused on developing test methods, standards, equipment, and ensembles for first responders, military personnel, and the public to address protection from chemical, particulate, biological, and thermal hazards. He is an active member of multiple standards and professional organizations that are focused on personal protective equipment, risk assessment, and human exposure including AATCC, ASTM, NFPA, ISO, ISRP, and ISES.

Dr. Ormond has secured numerous grants and contracts with federal and industrial agencies and organizations for research and development of more effective protective equipment and practices to address epidemic of cancer in the fire service. These projects include the development of a patented and commercialized smoke resistant turnout ensemble, a comprehensive evaluation of particulate-blocking firefighter hoods, an evaluation of enhanced cleaning procedures for turnout gear, and an assessment of the protection of fire investigator ensembles. In 2021, Dr. Ormond also began multiple efforts focused on the use, exposure, and transition from persistent per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the fire service. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Ormond began to utilize the TPACC facilities and animatronic head forms to develop new, more realistic methods of evaluating the performance and comfort of barrier face coverings used by the public to protect both the wearer and the community.