Laura Villafañe, an assistant professor of aerospace engineering, has joined the Beckman Institute.

Villafañe's research explores fluid dynamics with an emphasis on turbulent and particle-laden flows as well as the development of non-intrusive diagnostics and data analysis tools. Prior to joining UIUC, she completed her Ph.D. at the von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics in Belgium, followed by postdoctoral fellow and research engineer positions in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University.

At the Beckman Institute, she collaborates with Brad Sutton and the Biomedical Imaging Center to tailor MRI sequences and data reconstruction methodologies to quantify three-dimensional distributions of velocity, scalar concentration, and temperature in fluid flows. MRI techniques have a large potential in fluid dynamics research and specifically in internal and complex 3D flows, where conventional measurement techniques are impracticable or provide limited information. MRI often surpasses the measurement capabilities of conventional optical and probe-based techniques: for example, in biological, respiratory, and urban flows; ventilation dynamics; and flows in internal cooling systems.

Villafañe and her research group also collaborate with researchers in Beckman's Imaging Technology Group. The 3D X-ray computed tomography equipment in the Microscopy Suite is instrumental for the in-situ micro-scale characterization of parachute textiles under mechanical load, an effort that is impacting constitutive models for improved parachute decelerators design and failure predictions. Beckman's micro-CT capabilities are also essential for precise size distribution characterization of solid particles that are used in controlled particle-laden flow experiments.

“I am honored to officially join the Beckman community, a space that brings together top minds across disciplines, facilitates researchers' access to unique facilities, and nurtures a collaborative environment where multi-disciplinary research and innovation flourish," she said.

"Working with Beckman faculty, researchers, and staff these past years has already extended the potential of magnetic resonance imaging for fluid dynamics research and facilitated unconventional micro-CT textile measurements. I look forward to continuing engaging in innovative projects and contributing to the Beckman community.”