Kira Patel

My PhD project will focus on the physics of complex fluids, looking at two overlapping families of them. The first being passive yield stress fluids such as gels, creams and emulsions, which act as elastic solids under a low applied stress but act as viscous fluids when a high enough stress is applied. The second family is active yield stress fluids, which are made up of microscopic constituents that consume energy in order to move the material from within, such as in suspensions of swimming microbes. The physics behind these fluids also governs many living systems, such as how tissues flow during development.

Who or what inspired you to pursue your research interests?

During my undergraduate degree I was always most drawn to the fluids courses, which then led me to undertake a summer research project modelling the Danner process - and industrial process for glass tube manufacture. I really enjoyed doing this research project, which made me realise I would love to pursue my research interests further. I'm also super grateful to my supervisors who heavily encouraged me to do so!