Anushka Sarode

My research focuses on deformation and failure mechanisms of polymers and composites using novel experimental mechanics techniques at a wide range of strain rates.

Manage 15+ undergraduate crew members, train new crew members in operational procedures, and oversee post-test operations to ensure quality and accuracy of reduced data. Work alongside crew members to support engineering projects.

Operate and manage wind tunnel through regular aerodynamic tests with commercial and research customers. As a student test technician, main responsibilities include tunnel upkeep, data acquisition, data correction and reduction through scientific programming, and implementation of experimental test practices. Constant use of in-the-moment critical thinking skills and abilities to rapidly problem solve technical issues to maintain aggressive testing schedules. Apply and understand fundamentals of aerodynamics, atmospheric flight mechanics, and fluid mechanics to satisfy changing testing requirements and to improve data quality.

Combined all Recovery projects under one team (Nose Cone Ejection, Parachute Stage Separator, Parachutes, and an autonomously controlled guidance system), and am overseeing the structures-based portion of the team. Leading 12+ undergraduate students to design, manufacture, and test new recovery systems for both a solid stage rocket and a liquid bi-propellant rocket.

Led a team of undergraduates to test Nose Cone Ejection systems, and integrated with the Recovery Coupler team to test Recovery Electronics.

Focused on improving the recovery system of the rocket by designing hardware to support a safer black-powder based ejection assembly. Worked with a team to manufacture and test hardware to ensure reliable functionality.

Supported the New Mid-liner Airplane (NMA) team. Worked to improve the efficiency of organizational systems by designing an interactive CAD tie-rod model with CATIA V5 to reduce the time spent referencing legacy engineering drawings during the design cycle. Performed trade studies on composite materials to aid in the decision making process for a design feature on the aircraft.

Enrolled in a joint doctoral program with San Diego State University.

Enrolled in a joint doctoral program with University of California, San Diego.

Concentrations in Structural Materials and Nanoscience and Molecular Engineering. Pursuing a minor in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering.