My name is Reid Berdanier.  I am an Assistant Research Professor in the Steady Thermal Aero Research Turbine (START) Laboratory at Penn State University.

 

My current research focuses on the development of novel instrumentation techniques for turbomachinery applications and the use of these methods to reveal the underlying flow physics governing heat transfer and aerodynamics, including blade row interactions.

 

My doctoral research at Purdue University was geared toward an understanding of rotor tip leakage flows for large tip clearances in a multistage axial compressor. This research revealed important multistage effects, as well as the presence of previously unknown non-linear trends, related to tip leakage flows. To complete this research, I utilized an extensive collection of basic and advanced instrumentation, including high-frequency-response pressure transducers and thermal anemometry.

 

As an instructor of undergraduate Fluid Mechanics, I worked to develop stragies to describe concepts which are often troublesome for students.  I like to share those notes in the Resources section of my website as they are developed.

 

Also in my Resources section, I have supplied information to help applicants of the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP).  As a three-time applicant (one-time winner) of this fellowship, I learned a great deal about what drives the divide between a good application and a great application. Although there is certainly no recipe for success, I have compiled an Application Guide and all of my application essays to help the next generation of applicants.

 

I'm always open to opportunities for collaboration and professional development, so please feel free to contact me using the tools provided here.