This summer, more than 80 students and faculty kept campus abuzz with the hum of hands-on field and lab research. The Seaver Summer Research Community’s work covered topics in biology, health and human sciences, mechanical engineering, computer science and more disciplines across the college. With such a diversity of research projects to choose from, we spoke to some of the students about their unique summer experience. Today, we spotlight mechanical engineering major Joseph Douille ’26, who worked this summer in professor Emily Hawkins’ Fluids of Astrophysical Bodies (FAB) Lab studying possibility of life on one of Saturn’s moons.
Describe your research in a way that a high school student would understand it.
My research is a part of a larger experiment by Dr. Hawkins in the physics department. We are hoping to simulate the conditions for fluids on an icy moon of Saturn. My work revolved around the design and assembly of the experiment in SolidWorks.
Why would someone outside your field be interested in your project?
This icy moon has the potential to sustain life. In recent years, NASA has taken interest in developing research towards this moon. By studying the fluid dynamics, we are able to understand this moon and its uses to humans much more.
What are some of the lessons students learn while working on research?
Students are able to refine and develop their computer aided designing, 3D printing, machine assembly, and other hands on physics/engineering skills while working on this research. While this experiment revolves around physics, engineers are still very useful.
How does doing research complement coursework?
When designing components to a machine, it is very important to understand the capabilities of the component. This includes both geometric and material capabilities. By participating in this research, I needed to take both of these factors into consideration during the design process. While many classes teach these skills individually, it is crucial to bring them together.
What advice would you give to someone on the fence about doing research?
Research is an extremely valuable opportunity to see how the material in your classes can be used in real life. It makes it very clear why we study what we study. Especially at LMU, our teachers are extremely helpful and want to teach the students while they carry out their research.
