(2kh) Single-Phase and Multiphase Fluidic Flows in the Inertial to Turbulent Regime

My research interests are focused on single-phase and multiphase fluidic flows in the inertial to turbulent regime, primarily focused on modeling, controlling, and utilizing these flows. From petrochemical processing to consumer goods manufacturing, high throughput production requires the use of high Reynolds number flows for rapid manufacturing. My research seeks to better understand the behavior of these flows through a combination of high fidelity, full physics simulations and data-driven machine learning based modeling. My research would primarily focus on two broad thrusts. In one research area, I will be exploring the behavior of multiphase fluid flows with the goal of creating data driven models through advance machine learning techniques. Forecasting instantaneous phase distributions of various multiphase flows, such as liquid-gas slug flow or liquid-liquid dispersed flows, remains an open problem with particular interest in oil and gas extraction. While current data-driven techniques attempt primarily to predict phase faction via external measurements, predictions of phase distribution through machine learning based time integration schemes have been largely unexamined. I would seek to develop modeling techniques for forecasting phase distribution under various conditions, beginning with well-defined two phase flows and proceeding to flows of numerous phases and compositions. My background in developing data-driven models for fluidic flows makes me particularly qualified for developing such models. In the second research area, I will be investigating inertial focusing in deformable channels through high fidelity, full physics simulations. Inertial migration has been touted for its separation potential due to requiring no external forces; however, the phenomenon of inertial focusing has been primarily studied in rigid channels. Inertial migration in deformable channels, whether for understanding the behavior in biological systems or for utilization in soft microfluidic devices, remains an unexplored region of the field. I would seek to develop simulations to explore this phenomenon, beginning with single particle explorations and proceeding onto anisotropic and multiparticle flows. My previous research investigating particle dynamics in previously unexplored inertial flow conditions qualifies me for exploring this phenomenon in deformable channels. Additionally, I am interested in pedagogical research, namely in investigating undergraduate research. Undergraduate research (UR), wherein young researchers can gain first-hand laboratory experience, is well documented in its positive benefits for short- and long-term growth. While widely practiced, a comprehensive approach to engaging in UR so as to best benefit both undergraduates and mentors is lacking. I would seek to engage in an exhaustive study, starting with an investigation into the goals and expectations of students, advisors, and departments participating in UR and following the short- and long-time outcomes of the research across different UR techniques to determine the optimal method for achieving these objectives. Creating a comprehensive approach to UR would create improved research quality and enhance the development of better students.

Teaching Interests

I have had an interest in teaching and instruction throughout my graduate and undergraduate career. While pursuing my bachelors, I worked as a teaching assistant (TA) through both hands-on instruction in laboratory-based classes and evaluating comprehension and understanding in written assignments. Additionally, I worked as both a tutor and study group leader through our Teaching and Learning Center and as a peer writing consultant in our Writing Center. In my graduate studies, I acted as a TA for several undergraduate and graduate courses. This included acting as a TA and holding office hours for a course I had never studied, requiring me to learn, synthesize, and understand new material so as to best aid my students. My teaching interests lie not only in instructing students in required material, but in developing techniques for encouraging better understanding and comprehension in students. I believe that exploring improved educational methods, such as promoting active learning and utilizing flipped classroom lessons, can help lead to better teaching and better students. While I am practiced with and have given standard board lectures, I think breaking out of the standard pedagogical paradigm will help students, professors, and departments better prepare for the future. With my educational and research background, I am prepared to teach and develop courses in a number of subject areas. I am able to instruct introductory chemical engineering courses, focused on engineering basics. I can instruct courses in fluid dynamics, heat and mass transfer, and thermodynamics. Additionally, I can teach mathematical and computational methods for chemical engineers. Finally, I would be interested in developing courses focused on advanced computational methods, instructing students on techniques necessary for computational chemical engineering.