Michael W. Davis, an engineer and scientist with American Glass Research, died on 9th June 2011 following a courageous battle with cancer.

Davis joined American Glass Research with his master’s degree in mechanical engineering from West Virginia, USA in 1976. While working for American Glass Research he obtained his doctorate from Ohio State University, graduating in 1984.

During the span of his 35-year career, Dr Davis distinguished himself in the areas of glass strength and impact mechanics, authoring and presenting numerous papers along the way. He was a pioneer in the area of computer stress analysis of glass bottles and he earned a reputation as a technical leader in the glass industry. He held worldwide recognition based on both his knowledge and frequent role as an instructor of design and fracture seminars.

He is survived by his wife and two children. He will be deeply missed by all of his colleagues at American Glass Research and Agr International.