He taught first at the Royal College of Science for Ireland (in Dublin) from 1884 to 1888, and from then on at University College, Dundee. McCowan was a pioneer in the study of the fluid mechanics and physics behind surfing, and his papers on wave theory are still being cited over a century later. His career was cut short due to heart issues, and he died at age 37.
He instructed initially at the Royal College of Science in Dublin (in Dublin) from 1884 to 1888, and subsequently at University College, Dundee. McCowan was a trailblazer in the study of fluid dynamics and physics underlying surfing, and his papers on wave theory are still referenced over a century after their publication. His career was terminated prematurely due to heart issues, and he passed away at age 37.