U.S. Air Force Research Lab Summer Faculty Fellowship Program

U.S. Air Force Research Lab Summer Faculty Fellowship Program

U.S. Air Force Research Lab Summer Faculty Fellowship Program
SFFP Home > Contact > USAFA > U.S. Air Force Academy (U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado )

U.S. Air Force Academy (U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado )

SF.04.23.B10145: STEM attrition at US Service Academies

Bowers, James - 719-333-2240

Research will investigate rates of STEM attrition at US Service Academies and possible intervention strategies to address.

SF.04.22.B10092: Space Physics and Atmospheric Research

McHarg, Matthew - 719-333-2460

The Space Physics and Atmospheric Research Center (SPARC) in the Department of Physics and Meteorology performs research on atmospheric and space physics. Topics include lightning studies, gravity waves and their effects on the middle atmosphere, methods and techniques for implementing low cost science payloads for spacecraft, and basic research into ionospheric and magnetospheric physics.

SF.04.20.B0002: Modeling Electromagnetic Scattering from Hypersonic Plasma Sheaths

Musselman, Randall - 719-333-4211

This research effort investigates modeling and simulation techniques for electromagnetic scattering from hypersonic plasma sheaths. This work would combine the results of thermodynamics and statistical-mechanics analysis, to formulate an electric model of the plasma sheath that is formed around hypersonic vehicles. Specifically, estimates of collision frequency and plasma frequency would be used to create three-dimensional models of conductivity and permittivity. These 3D models would be simulated in HFSS and FEKO for their propagation characteristics, including radar cross section. Additionally, transmission through the models would be characterized, in an attempt to identify communication techniques through the plasma, including favorable frequency ranges. Frequency-scaled physical models would be constructed, and propagation measurements would be made in the anechoic chamber at USAFA, in order to validate the simulations. The models would likely rely on parameters that could never be known with high precision, such as collision frequency. So a sensitivity analysis would be conducted in an attempt to characterize frequency ranges that would be less sensitive to these imprecise parameters.

SF.04.20.B0001: Promoting Respect and Inclusivity

Butler, Michelle - 719-333-7991

We have a variety of research studies and projects which relate to promoting respect and inclusivity for individuals who are deaf, blind, brain-injured, spinal cord injured, and homeless. We also have an applied leadership project which develops respect and inclusivity between cadets and students at a Buddhist-inspired university. Some of our studies focus on resiliency in these specific groups and others focus on the relationship between American Sign Language and English proficiency. We have a ten-year longitudinal study which focuses on resilience when students enter a school for the deaf and the blind and when the student graduates.

SF.04.19.B0003: Advanced Combustion Diagnostics

Munson, Matthew - 719 333-2613

The Advanced Propulsion Group at the Air Force Academy Aeronautics Research Center is developing state-of-the-art combustion diagnostics capabilities for use in fundamental and applied combustion rigs. In-house fundamental rigs include a McKenna burner, a detonation combustor, and a combustion shock tube (installation in 2018). Fully instrumented applied combustion rigs include jet engines and internal combustion engines. Modern combustion diagnostics must include the typical temperature, pressure, flow rate, emissions, etc measurements, along with advanced in-situ optical diagnostics. In-house optical combustion diagnostics capabilities include a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), Planar Laser Induced Flourescence (PLIF), and stereoscopic Particle Image Velocimetry (S-PIV). Efforts are underway to demonstrate advanced combustion visualization capabilities using combinations of these diagnostics and publish novel, fundamental, useful combustion data. Collaborations with fellow combustion researchers who can provide additional optical expertise and equipment (ex: fundamental burner rig, additional diagnostics) are highly desired.

SF.04.19.B0002: Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Vehicles

Hancock, David - 719-333-3131

The Academy Center for Cyberspace Research is interested in AFOSR Summer Fellows with expertise in artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles (preferably unmanned aerial systems). Research efforts include but are not limited to:
- Machine learning applied to anomaly detection for Industrial Control Systems/SCADA
- Artificial intelligence integrated into automated network sensors for rapid threat identification and response
- Leveraging artificial intelligence for automating a swarm of unmanned aerial systems to self correct in face of failure
- Utilizing artificial intelligence search and automation for near real-time flight scheduling/rescheduling
- Analysis of Air Force acquisition data/timelines to train a system to determine probability of project failure
- Integrating combat behaviors into a swarm of unmanned aerial systems

SF.04.19.B0001: Interdisciplinary head acceleration analysis

D`Lauro, Chris - (719)333-9015

Project investigators will assist in extraction, re-coding, and analysis of longitudinal head impact data that are related to high impact athletics. These data will be connected to neuro-cognitive assessments as well as other health-related measures. Experience in biomechanics of head motion is a highly desired attribute for collaborative investigators. The ideal candidate would have a theory-driven idea of how all of these measures might interact and be used in future assessments of activity safety - with the ultimate goal of developing probabilistic thresholds on participant safety.

SF.04.18.B0004: Pedagogy Research for Education in Electrical and Computer Engineering

York, George - 719-333-4210

The Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at the United States Air Force Academy provides core curriculum for all Academy graduates related to electronic and computer systems and foundational curriculum for Academy majors in electrical and computer engineering. Opportunities exist to use engineering education research for developing instructional resources and tailoring pedagogical approaches to better address technical and professional program objectives. Topics of interest include teaching to non-ECE engineers, technology-based resources, capstone/design curriculum, assessment instruments, and professional skills, e.g. design teams and engineering ethics.

SF.04.18.B0003: Measuring and predicting the effects of sub-concussive head strikes on future memory and cognition

D’Lauro, Christopher - 303-868-7289

Concussions in contact sports and the military have become an important public health issue. Now sub-concussive head impacts – milder head injuries that include no loss of consciousness – also have been shown to increase risk for later neurodegeneration (Gavett 2011). However, sub-concussive impacts remain largely understudied. Dr. Daniel Leeds at Fordham University is collaborating with Drs. Chris D’Lauro and Brian Johnson at the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) to study the effects of sub-concussive head injuries on cognition. We employ accelerometers and behavioral tasks to understand the elements of head injuries most predictive of memory deficits. Data is collected from USAFA cadets who participate in boxing and non-combat physical exercises in the course of their studies. At Fordham University, Dr Leeds’ lab employs statistical and computational techniques to identify patterns of motion and memory most associated with cognitive deficit. Ability to understand the behavioral signs of cognitive deficit can aid in early intervention. Ability to understand the precise types of impacts producing neural and cognitive deficits may allow for development of better defensive equipment as well as defensive maneuvers employed by the athlete or soldier. Our project combines insight in psychology, physics, computer science, and statistics to address these important medical challenges.

SF.04.18.B0001: Cybersecurity

Hancock, David - 719-333-3131

Interested in Research Fellows working actively on network, software, SCADA, critical infrastructure, and encryption security, as well as security modeling and formal methods. Other areas of relevance to computer and cyber sciences will also be considered.

SF.04.17.B0007: Human-Machine Teaming

Tossell, Chad - 832-341-1800

Fully autonomous systems are becoming a reality. From self-driving cars to self-flying aircraft, these systems are no longer stuck solely in science fiction. The USAF has begun a large series of activities associated with understanding how to maximize these systems as they work together with humans. Indeed, human-machine teaming (HMT) is a burgeoning area of research focus including a large program within the Department of Behavioral Sciences’ Warfighter Effectiveness Research Center (WERC) at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA). Summer faculty participants working on this program will interact with novel technologies, including autonomous robots, in order to more effectively design systems that interact well with humans. Summer researchers will also gain experience setting up experiments with human subjects, engaging with the top researchers in the field, and a number of other activities in this domain of research. ***Please note that all applicants are encouraged to be in contact with the advisor prior to submitting their applications so you can guide them through the proposal and address any questions regarding research criteria and expectations.

SF.04.17.B0003: Improving Performance and Retention in STEM

Lloyd, Robert - 719-333-7707

Since 1994, the United States Air Force Academy`s Center for Physics Education Research (CPER) has been developing active-learner instructional materials and incorporating technology into research-based pedagogies to enhance student learning. Just-in-Time Teaching (JiTT), developed at CPER in collaboration with other universities, has found its way into virtually all academic disciplines, nationally and internationally. Current research efforts include quantifying the magnitude of STEM major attrition at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Since poor math skills is a predictor for performance in introductory physics courses as well as cadets who change from a STEM major to a non-STEM major, the CPER is investigating various interventions that could help ensure students have the prerequisite math knowledge needed for success and retention in STEM. These studies connect active learning paradigms with social psychological interventions that address both student and faculty mindsets to improve student learning and outcomes in the STEM disciplines. Additionally, the CPER is seeking ways to disseminate its ready-made comprehensive flipped learning materials, which are based on JiTT and worked-examples, via existing Open Educational Resources (OER) to aid physics educators and curriculum developers around the globe.

SF.04.17.B0002: Unresolved Satellite Characterization Research

Chun, Francis - 719-333-2601

Brief Summary of Research Area: Satellite characterization through non-imaging observational techniques such as photometry, spectroscopy, and polarimetry. Multi-modal (i.e. photometry, spectroscopy, and polarimetry) data fusion using satellite modeling and information theory concepts. ***Please note that all applicants are encouraged to be in contact with the advisor prior to submitting their applications so you can guide them through the proposal and address any questions regarding research criteria and expectations.

SF.04.17.B0001: Human-Machine Teaming

Tossell, Chad - 832-341-1800

Fully autonomous systems are becoming a reality. From self-driving cars to self-flying aircraft, these systems are no longer stuck solely in science fiction. The USAF has begun a large series of activities associated with understanding how to maximize these systems as they work together with humans. Indeed, human-machine teaming (HMT) is a burgeoning area of research focus including a large program within the Department of Behavioral Sciences’ Warfighter Effectiveness Research Center (WERC) at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA). Summer faculty participants working on this program will interact with novel technologies, including autonomous robots, in order to more effectively design systems that interact well with humans. Summer researchers will also gain experience setting up experiments with human subjects, engaging with the top researchers in the field, and a number of other activities in this domain of research.

SF.04.16.B0002: Cybersecurity, Formal Methods and Malware Analysis

Hancock, David - 719-333-3131

The Academy Center for Cyberspace Research is interested in AFOSR Summer Fellows with expertise in Cybersecurity, Formal Methods, Malware Analysis and related areas. Research efforts include but are not limited to securing SCADA and Industrial Control Systems (ICS), the use of Formal Methods to improve the security of open source software, malware detection and neutralization, forensics, and network security.

SF.04.16.B0001: Advanced Functional Polymers & Materials

Iacono, S. - (719) 333-6005

Our research team focuses on preparing functionalized polymer and hybrid polymer composites directed towards developing next-generation, high-performance materials to meet operational AF and mission partner needs. On-going projects include, but not limited to, processable, partially fluorinated poly(aryl ether)s, fluorosiloxane hybrid composites, chemical/biological detection, and extended poly(aromatic)s for organic electronics. Projects encompass organic/polymer synthesis, processing, and characterization. Our continued multi-invested collaborations include industry partners, Department of Energy, Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory, and many technical directorates within the Air Force Research Laboratory. Laboratory research facilities in the Department of Chemistry include a host of modern advanced materials processing and characterization (in addition to the standard suite of small molecule characterization): controlled atmosphere dryboxes, multi-solvent purification system, all hoods equipped with Schlenk lines, two NMR spectrometers (400 and 500 MHz), Gaussian, single crystal X-ray diffractometer, thermal analysis instrumentation (DSC, TGA, and DMA), surface characterization (powder XRD, MALDI, AFM, and SEM), UV-Vis/PL, GPC system, and processing equipment (twin extruder/injection molder, electrosprayer, spin coater, metal vapor deposition, ball mills, and sCO2 extractor).

SF.04.13.B0821: Biosystems and Extremophiles

Balboni, Armand - 719-333-9670

The Life Sciences Research Center’s (LSRC) primary mission is to support the Air Force’s research
programs at the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) and Air Force Research Laboratories
(AFRL) through faculty and cadet research efforts. LSRC, within the Department of Biology at the
U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), is seeking research partnerships to identify and investigate the
unique properties of microbial photosynthetic extremophiles (algae or cyanobacteria that are
thermophilic, acidophilic, desiccation tolerant, etc.), to develop genetic engineering systems for
these organisms, and to genetically modify them for novel functionality, such as serving as biosensors for TNT or other molecules of interest.

Applications are encouraged from individuals with a background in phycology, microbiology,
biochemistry, extremophile physiology, or genetic engineering, and experience with thermophiles,
desiccation tolerant organisms including desert crust microbiota, isolation and identification of
photosynthetic microorganisms, and developing methods for exogenous protein expression in algae or
cyanobacteria. LSRC equipment includes illuminated incubators, shakers, a walk-in growth chamber,
spectrophotometers, flow cytometer, GC-FID, TOC analyzer, microbial fuel cells, multimeters and
potentiostats, bioreactor, electroporator, PCR and real-time PCR equipment, MPLC, DNA and protein
gel apparatuses, inverted fluorescent and dissection microscopes, ultracentrifuges, and a cell sorter.

SF.04.02.B0212: Laser Cooling and Nonlinear Optics

Knize, R.J - (719) 333-4165

We conduct research on laser cooling and trapping of neutral atoms, and on the development and application of nonlinear optical materials. Laser cooling is used to produce cold atoms, which can be confined in a far off resonance optical trap. Current research focuses on producing and trapping cold molecules for frequency standards, and on achieving long atomic coherence times for measurement of small physical phenomena (e.g., an atomic electric dipole moment). We are also examining nonlinear optics of these cold trapped atoms, optical nonlinearities of doped polymers and ion implanted silica, and the use of holography for correction of optical elements.

SF.04.01.B5798: Dynamics of Ionospheric and Mesospheric Optical Emissions

McHarg, M.G - (719) 333-2460

We are interested in understanding how the dynamics of the mesosphere and ionosphere can be remotely measured using various optical techniques. We use both ground- and space-based observations of these regions, which are difficult study in situ. Our ground-based observations use a variety of high-speed camera and multi-anode photometers to investigate high-speed optical fluctuations associated with the aurora and sprites. Space-based observations of the aurora and airglow use data from the Global Ultra Violet Imager to establish the average energy and energy flux of incoming auroral precipitation, as well as to determine the plasma density in the equatorial ionosphere. We hope to gain a better understanding of the different time and spatial scales, which may be important in the understanding and ability to model the coupled ionosphere, mesosphere system.

SF.04.01.B5796: Space Object Optical Signatures Research

Chun, Francis - 719-333-2601

The Center for Space Situational Awareness Research (CSSAR) in the Department of Physics at the US Air Force Academy is interested in satellite tracking and characterization. CSSAR is actively working in the areas of (1) non-imaging photometric, spectral, and polarimetric techniques leading to the identification and characterization of unresolved space objects; (2) modeling and simulation to understand the inverse problem associated with characterization of non-resolved space objects; (3) initial orbit determination using metric data from bi-static radar returns and angles-only optical measurements; (4) short-arc precision orbit determination with high-rate optical measurements; and (5) investigation of resolved imaging techniques such as lucky imaging. CSSAR is developing a network of small aperture telescopes that will provide global coverage of the space catalog and the capability to observe satellites simultaneously from multiple telescope locations for data fusion research.

SF.04.01.B5492: Closed Loop Flow Control

Munson, Matthew - (719) 333-2613

This research effort investigates the efficacy of closed loop active flow control techniques in controlling flow behavior near aerodynamic bodies. The work takes a combined fluids/controls approach, identifying control approaches appropriate to the particular problem at hand, guided by detailed knowledge of the flow field, obtained through experimental and computational means. The work seeks to control the flow using a low-order model, based on Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) which identifies the most dominant modes. Sensor information is used to estimate the amplitudes of the time-dependent coefficients of the POD modes. Based on this estimation, a closed loop controller commands the actuators that trigger actuators based on surface sensor information. Similar, non-POD methods could also be employed. A closely integrated dual path of experiment and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods is in use to make most of the advantages of both tools. The active manipulation of a flow field has been elusive for many decades. Recently, with the surge of new technologies in the areas of sensors, actuators, and real-time data processing, the dawn of the "closed-loop era" is breaking. The various pieces of a closed loop system have been investigated independently, but piecing them together has been achieved in only a limited number of flows. This area of research is multidisciplinary in nature merging the fields of fluid flow, controls, simulations, data processing, and structures. The results of the effort should be a robust, well-validated method of controlling flows where passive and open loop means are ineffective or impractical.

SF.04.01.B5429: Robust Flight Control of UAVs

York, G.W - (719) 333-9193

The Academy Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (ACUASR) focuses on enabling technologies for UAS. With our available fleet of fixed wing UAV, we have developed and demonstrated technologies in cooperative autonomous control behaviors, cooperative sensor networks, and robust and reliable communication networks. Current research areas are: 1) UAV autonomy to sense and avoid air obstacles either with shared position information or integrated sensors, 2) embedded software architecture methods that support rapid deployment of new UAS technologies, and 3) cooperative autonomous behaviors to accomplish a variety of UAS missions using multiple UAVs in environments that include denied communication and global positioning system signals. All research will be verified through simulation and flight tests at USAFA.

SF.04.01.B4654: Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis and Code Development Applied to Unsteady Aerodynamics

Seidel, Jurgen - 719-333-9526

This research is comprised of two phases: computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method improvements for unsteady aerodynamics and comparison of CFD simulations with experiments of unsteady aerodynamics. The CFD method improvements are in the areas of high order turbulence modeling such as detached-eddy simulation, pneumatic flow control method implementation, dynamic grid motion implementation to simulate fighter configurations experiencing enhanced maneuverability, and reduced-order modeling. In addition to code enhancements, this project involves providing CFD comparisons with experiments performed in the US Air Force Academy Aeronautics wind/water tunnels to support ongoing research in delta wing flow control, unmanned combat air vehicle dynamic lift, and massively separated flows of fighter configurations.

SF.04.01.B4645: Gas Turbine Blade Flow Studies

Munson, Matthew - (719) 333-2969

Research opportunities are available to perform experimental and computational investigations of internal and external flows associated with gas turbine engines. The goal is to understand the fluid physics that will lead to improvements in gas turbine component efficiencies, particularly at low Reynolds Number conditions where performance losses have been experienced. Current research involves measuring the presence of boundary layer separation on the suction side of 10x-scale gas turbine blades in a linear cascade wind tunnel using a variety of flow diagnostic techniques including liquid crystal thermography, hot-wire anemometry, surface pressure measurements, wake measurements, and thermal tuft surface flow visualization. We are interested in active and passive flow control techniques for eliminating the boundary layer separation. In addition, research is in progress on the flow and heat transfer within the internal blade passages, which are used for turbine blade cooling. Recently, experimental investigations have been complimented by in-house computational investigations using Fluent and Cobalt60.

SF.04.01.B0209: High-Speed Vehicle Design

Cummings, R.M - (719) 333-9223

We conduct basic and applied research that is relevant to a variety of national aerospace applications, including trans-atmospheric vehicles, hypersonic cruise missiles, high-speed vehicles powered by air-breathing propulsion systems, and theater missile defense systems. The research programs involve integration of experimental programs conducted in the Tri-Sonic Wind Tunnel (TWT) and Mach 6 Ludwieg Tube and computations using state-of-the-art numerical codes. Various data acquisition techniques are being developed to determine the pressure, temperature, and heat transfer distributions on models placed in the supersonic stream of the TWT and the hypersonic stream of the Ludwieg Tube.

SF.04.01.B0208: Advanced Air Breathing Propulsion

Wisniewski, C.F - (719) 333-9387

The Advanced Propulsion Group at the Air Force Academy Aeronautics Research Center is developing the technology base for the design of future air breathing propulsion systems. Experimental programs are conducted in the Aeronautics Research Center's four jet engine test cells. Currently, the Center's operational and instrumented engines include the J-69 and J-85 turbojet, the F-109 turbofan, the T-63 turboshaft, and a Chevy 454 (internal combustion). Programs include an investigation of the dynamic response of fan and compressor blades (high cycle fatigue). A variety of advanced techniques are used including ultrahigh rate data sampling of temperature, pressure, and velocity inside the jet engine. In addition, efforts are ongoing to develop efficient propulsion systems with low noise signatures for use in small unmanned aerial vehicles. These efforts include experimental and computational investigations of low Reynolds number propellers and ducted fans. Sponsorship of these research programs includes the Air Force Research Laboratory, SOCOM and DARPA.

SF.04.18.B0002: Qualitative Analysis of factors affecting self-report of concussion

D’Lauro, Christopher - 303-868-7289

Our research team of neuroscientists and social psychologists has collected voluminous data detailing the contexts and factors associated with self-report of concussion. While the quantitative aspects of the work are well-defined, no data collection has addressed qualitatively the reasons why a cadet might or might not self-report a concussion. A properly calibrated qualitative approach would allow a better understanding of the kind of reasoning behind the data we see. In addition, this approach could allow for a more effective intervention aimed at increasing self-report of concussion in the cadet population. Our aim would be to agree on a protocol prior to the summer, agree on a collaborative data collection plan, then collaborate on data collection and/or analysis over the summer. Depending on the timeline of data collection, we would aim to submit a paper the following autumn or winter. Applicants should have a good working knowledge of the concussion research landscape – preferably through an interdisciplinary lens: including sports medicine, public health, psychology, or the like.

USAFA

Major Francis, Christopher
USAFA lab POC for physics education research
2354 Fairchild Dr.
USAF Academy, Colorado 80840
Telephone:
Email: Christopher.Francis@afacademy.af.edu

Col. Finkelstein, Daniel
Associate Dean for Research
USAFA/DFQR
USAF Academy, Colorado 80840-6200
Telephone:
Email: Daniel.finkelstein@afacademy.af.edu

Ms. Whinnery, Teresa
USAFA/DFQR T3 and Research Program Specialist
Fairchild Hall 2H29-202
USAF Academy, Colorado 80840-6200
Telephone:
Email: Teresa.Whinnery.ctr@afacademy.af.edu

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