Dr. Godbold began working as a research engineer at the Ben T. Zinn Combustion Laboratory in 2023 while completing his Ph.D. He completed his doctorate in July 2025 and subsequently continued at the laboratory in a research role. His work has spanned a wide range of combustion applications, including reciprocating engines, ground power systems, and aerospace propulsion. Across these platforms, he has employed laser diagnostics and intrusive measurement techniques to quantify the spatial and temporal evolution of heat release, emissions, and other key combustor characteristics. Currently, his primary focus is on advanced aviation gas turbine development and ignition phenomena for various applications.