Alexandra H. Techet

Prof. Alexandra H. Techet is a Professor of Mechanical and Ocean Engineering at MIT's Department of Mechanical Engineering. She leads the Experimental Hydrodynamics Laboratory (EHL), focusing on experimental investigations of hydrodynamics problems relevant to naval engineering and ocean science. Her research integrates advanced imaging techniques like 3D PIV/PTV and biomimetic design to study fluid-structure interactions, free surface flows, and unsteady propulsion mechanisms in marine systems. Prof. Techet holds a B.S.E. from Princeton University and M.S./Ph.D. from MIT's Joint Program with WHOI.

Education:

• B.S.E. in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University (1995)
• M.S. in Oceanographic Engineering, MIT/WHOI Joint Program (1998)
• Ph.D. in Oceanographic Engineering, MIT/WHOI Joint Program (2001)

Research Interests: Prof. Techet's work addresses hydrodynamics challenges in naval systems and marine environments through experimental methods. Key areas include:

• Biologically inspired propulsion (fish swimming, jumping mechanics)
• Fluid-structure interaction in offshore platforms
• 3D imaging techniques for multiphase flows
• Water entry dynamics and spray hydrodynamics
• Development of autonomous underwater vehicles

Her EHL lab employs cutting-edge experimental setups like light field cameras and synthetic aperture PIV for high-resolution flow visualization.

Awards & Recognition:

• 2011, 2009, 2007, 2005 APS Gallery of Fluid Motion Prize
• 2004 ONR Young Investigators Award
• 2002-2004 Doherty Professorship for Ocean Utilization

Teaching & Outreach: Prof. Techet teaches core courses in hydrodynamics and design principles for ocean engineering systems. She co-directs the Naval Engineering Education Center (NEEC) at MIT and advises the MIT Marine Technology Society chapter. Her pedagogy emphasizes hands-on learning through lab modules linked to ongoing research projects, such as biomimetic underwater vehicle design and offshore energy systems.

Lab & Collaborations: The EHL collaborates with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to develop oceanographic instrumentation. Recent projects include studying archer fish jumping mechanics, unsteady vortical wakes, and high-speed ship hydrodynamics. Prof. Techet also explores applications of light field imaging for autonomous robotics and real-time flow analysis.