معرفی
Rachel Pepper is a Professor and Chair of Physics at the University of Puget Sound, holding the William D. and Flora McCormick Chair in Biophysics. She also serves as Director of the Dual-Degree Engineering program. Her research bridges physics, biology, and engineering through experimental, theoretical, and computational studies of biological fluid mechanics.
- Education: Brown University (BA 2002), Cambridge University (MA 2004), Harvard University (PhD 2006)
Her work focuses on two primary areas:
- Fluid flow around microscopic organisms: Studying sessile suspension feeders like Vorticella convallaria in the context of marine carbon cycling and wastewater treatment applications
- Splash cup plant seed dispersal: Investigating raindrop-induced seed ejection mechanisms for ecological understanding and industrial applications
Rachel's research has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Miller Institute Fellowship. She teaches courses in:
- General College Physics (PHYS 111)
- University Physics (PHYS 121)
- Classical Mechanics (PHYS 305)
- Electromagnetic Theory (PHYS 351/532)
- Biophysics (PHYS/BIO 363)
Her laboratory combines physics and biology methodologies, utilizing high-speed imaging (1 million fps) and 3D printing technology for experimental studies. She actively promotes STEM education through outreach programs like Techbridge Girls Dinner with a Scientist and the American Physical Society's educational outreach committee.
