Title:  From frost to triangles to polymers

Time:  Saturday,  11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Abstract: Sometimes, in modeling, we begin by modeling one thing and end up modeling something quite different. In this talk, I will start by sharing my efforts to model frost formation. I will then show how my efforts to improve upon these models led to developing a new class of models--triangular network models of fractal growth. I will present various behaviors of these models and describe their successful application to spun-cast thin-film polymers. Along the way, I will discuss the role serendipity plays in science.

Bio:  Kenneth Mulder is a data scientist and modeler. Over the last twenty years, his work in data analysis and modeling has included modeling human development patterns, hurricane impacts, agricultural energy dynamics, tree disease transmission, and, most recently, fractal growth processes and how they might simulate the development of polymer morphologies. He is passionate about teaching students advanced data analysis and modeling techniques and also enjoys using board games to teach mathematical thinking. He was formerly on the faculty of Green Mountain College, is currently a visiting associate professor at Mount Holyoke College, and, starting in the fall, will be joining the faculty of Hampshire College.