Undergraduate Research Experiences for Caltech Students in Colorado
Sponsored by Caltech SURF and the Solid Mechanics Research Group
SURF Opportunities
Every year, the Solid Mechanics Research Group partners with Caltech to provide summer research opportunities for Caltech undergraduate students. This opportunity is ideal for students who are looking for a first exposure to research in engineering, or who are thinking about applying for graduate school.
Located at the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs, Colorado, this SURF opportunity provides undergraduate students the opportunity to gain research experience in a spectacular setting. Colorado Springs, consistently ranked in the top 10 best places to live, offers a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities. While working on groundbreaking research projects, SURF students have the opportunity to enjoy Colorado’s many world-class outdoor recreation opportunities, from white water rafting to climbing some of Colorado’s 58 “fourteeners.”
If you are interested, please fill out the interest form by 1 February 2023. We will review the applications and respond to you shortly. If you have any questions, you are welcome to reach out to Dr. Runnels at brunnels@uccs.edu.
Opportunities
There are two SURF positions available for Summer 2023
Coupled solid and fluid simulations of AP/HTPB propellant burn
The AP/HTPB composite is a standard material for solid rocket propellant, but there is limited understanding of the many thermomechanical effects governing its burn. In this project, we will be coupling a phase field burn front regression model to a fluid phase combustion model for AP/HTPB burn. This will allow us to learn more about the many factors affecting regression rate, and to make predictions regarding optimal AP/HTPB composite characteristics.
Using machine learning to explore material failure
Failure of structural materials in extreme environments can lead to catastrophic consequences, but failure initiation remains poorly understood. In this project, we will use computer vision technology to recognize materials that are vulnerable to damage initiation. This is an opportunity to learn about the rapidly expanding world of machine learning while gaining knowledge about materials and mechanics.
Qualifications
Although prior experience is beneficial, there are no minimum qualifications for SURF candidates. The purpose of each SURF project is to introduce the research fellow to graduate level research and to provide an environment for them to build his/her technical skills in a supportive environment.