Work
Job 1: My work at Kodak Australasia Research Laboratories mostly concerned understanding the dynamics of air bubbles (in viscous solutions) which are exposed to ultrasonic waves. This work involved mathematical, computational and pilot plant experiments with particular emphasis on bubble oscillations (which determines their effective cross-section) and on cavitation. The purpose of this research was to design and optimise deaeration equipment for removing air bubbles from viscous solutions. I also conducted experiments to visualise the fluid dynamics around various static and dynamic mixers, including the use of image processing techniques. Lastly, I used statistical experimental design techniques to determine the failure limits for complex manufacturing solution delivery systems. For these experiments, I frequently travelled to Kodak manufacturing sites in the USA and UK.
Job 2: My work at CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research involves the use of high resolution Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models (e.g., down to 1 km). There are numerous applications for this technology with an interesting example being its use by the Alinghi yachting syndicate in their defence of the Americas Cup. The high resolution forecasts can also be used for forecasting air pollution and the transport of airborne livestock disease. Currently, we are also developing a 'rapid response' forecasting system which is designed to quickly produce high resolution forecasts on a laptop computer and would be useful for specific counter terrorism and emergency response applications. In addition to this work, I am also developing a detailed model of regional electricity consumption for Australia. The model includes the effects of climate (i.e., heating and cooling) and is used to drive economic models of the National Electricity Market. The model can also be used to explore possible changes to electricity usage habits arising from different climate change scenarios.
I suppose what I most enjoy about my work is using mathematical and computer models to understand the fundamental physics behind apparently complex systems (e.g., the weather).
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