Summer research fellow Athena Smith gains hands-on experience
The opportunity to conduct undergraduate research is a hallmark of the Radford experience. Regardless of major, students can engage in hands-on, faculty-mentored research projects. These experiences allow students to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world problems and further develops their critical thinking and analytical skills.
While these projects often take place during the academic year, summer can be an ideal time for students to focus on their research without the strain of a full class schedule. Unfortunately, this approach isn’t an option for students who need to work during the summer months to save money for the next academic year. Research fellowships, however, can help eliminate this barrier for students.
Athena Smith and Amanda Cox, MBA '21, external affairs manager at Appalachian Power Co.
This summer, junior Athena Smith had the opportunity to complete research without financial worry thanks to Appalachian Power and the American Electric Power Foundation. As the recipient of the inaugural Appalachian Power Summer Research Fellowship, Athena was able to continue her research and it started with a trip to Alaska.
Athena’s project began in the Arctic Geophysics field research program. Through this program, students create a research project based on their interests. With close mentoring from Dr. Rhett Herman, students design, propose and build a sensor‐based project to address a specific research question. Athena decided to measure wind speeds on the Arctic Sea ice using load cells and anemometers. Her goal was to better understand the components that make up the boundary layer and further explore wind speeds on the Arctic Sea ice wind and further explore the boundary layer of the Arctic.
In March 2024, Athena had the opportunity to deploy and test the equipment she created. She constructed a six-foot post with load cells attached to one side and anemometers attached to the other. Anemometers are typically used to measure wind speeds, but load cells are not; they are used to measure the amount of force placed on the sensor. During the one-week trip, she observed and tracked data, ultimately finding the anemometers closest to the ground did not spin, while others spun constantly. Athena believes this to be the effect of turbulent flow. Athena returned eager to continue her research and make changes based on her experience.
This summer, Athena has been focused on creating a three-dimensional load cell anemometer which would allow wind to be measured in three planes and in the positive and negative directions unlike traditional anemometers only measuring in one direction. She created 3D-printed wings increasing the sensitivity of the load cell readings. She has even utilized the wind tunnel in Reed Hall to establish a unit of measurement for load cells. Athena hopes by better measuring wind speeds along the boundary layer on land that she will soon be able to measure the boundary layer in water, which has yet to be done.
In December, Athena will present her research at the American Geophysical Union’s annual meeting. This is the largest gathering of Earth and space scientists. Her presentation will be part of the “MacGyver session” which focuses on completing research through self-built/engineered objects. She plans to continue her education by completing both Master’s and doctorate degrees with hopes of becoming an aerospace or mechanical engineer.
Having the opportunity to complete hands-on experience has fueled her passion for research. When asked how this fellowship made a difference, Athena said, “I would not be able to do any of this if it wasn't for the fellowship. I’m so incredibly thankful for that and it's awesome! I know there's funding for me to be able to get equipment and also just one-on-one time with Dr. Herman every single day. You can't beat that!”
To learn more about supporting students in the Artis College of Science and Technology, please contact Jon Zeitz at jzeitz@radford.edu or 540-831-5516.