Dr. Mark Thompson

Biography

Professor Mark Christopher Thompson obtained his PhD in Applied Mathematics from Monash University in 1985. His doctoral project focused on applying computer modeling to fluid flow, particularly in the context of the collapse of massive stars nearing the end of their lives. His early career included ten years at CSIRO across the Energy Technology and Building and Construction Engineering Divisions, where he developed software models for fluid flows for various industries including Comalco and Warman International. In 1995, Thompson became a senior lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Monash and has held significant positions, including Associate Dean of Research Training and Head of the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. He was appointed a full professor in 2006. His research is centered on theoretical, computational, and experimental modeling of fluid flows, focusing on flow stability, transition, and turbulence in flows past stationary and vibrating bodies. Thompson has made substantial contributions to fields such as bioengineering, turbomachinery, and sports aerodynamics. He was awarded the Faculty Research Award in 2015 and was made a Fellow of the Australasian Fluid Mechanics Society in 2018, being recognized as one of the top ten authors in a leading fluid mechanics journal over a span of 15 years.

Research Interests