I am fascinated by the reliable computational multiphysics and multiscale modeling of complex systems as a way to decrease the time and cost of engineering design. Laboratory time and prototypes are expensive, so it makes sense to rule out as many bad ideas as possible first, whether that is just by making sure that all of the parts will fit inside your package or whether it involves complicated multiphysics modeling across a range of disciplines to make sure that the current running through a part won't cause that part to deform under a load. My previous experience in modeling for fluids, controls, and materials has given me a wealth of modeling and computational experience to draw from, as well as a network of collaborators in industry, in academia, and at NASA. For my future research, I'd like my concentration to be on applications that solve critical social issues--energy solutions, medical and biological applications, and intelligently-designed products that make modern life easier while taking safety and sustainability into account.

Another of my research passions is communicating technology and design ideas to the end users. It's not enough for engineers to just give a client what he or she wants, or to poll the populace to design a product to fit an end need. It is critical for engineers to give the end users options and to be able to adequately explain those options. There are more costs inherent in any project than the outlay of capital required to get something in a person's hands. For example, the monetary cost of a child seat might be more than offset by the safety of the seat or how easy it is to transport. A homeowner might be more willing to pay a large upfront cost for solar cells if the new solar cells have a longer lifespan and an higher efficiency so that energy bills will be lower over the long run. Engineers need to be able to communicate these ideas so that the products and systems we design take all of their benefits and costs into account.

If you'd like to talk about some of the ideas I have for future work, I'd love to hear from you!