Dr. Sandra Troian

Professor

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Biography

Sandra M. Troian is a Professor of Applied Physics, Aeronautics, and Mechanical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology. She completed her B.A. at Harvard University in 1980, followed by an M.S. from Cornell University in 1984 and a Ph.D. in 1987. Troian has been recognized as a Moore Distinguished Scholar at Caltech from 2004 to 2005 and has been a professor since 2006. Her research interests encompass a wide range of topics, including dynamics stability in small-scale systems, confined flows, nonlinear dynamics, pattern formation, and the thermal phenomena at liquid/solid interfaces. She has a particular focus on phenomena like the Kapitza effect, thermal rectification, and microfluidics. Troian's work includes both theoretical analysis and experimental work in micro/nanoscale fluidic systems, aiming to provide insights into robust design principles for application-driven projects. She has also contributed to the understanding of Marangoni driven phenomena in biophysical systems, and her lab specializes in both fundamental analysis and engineering design of small-scale fluid systems.

Research Interests

Courses

APh/MS/ME 105 abc – States Matter APh/Ph 112 – Stochastic Resonance Phenomena Essential Role Noise APh/Ph 112 ab – Noise Stochastic Resonance APh/Ph/Ae/MS 153 – Fundamentals Energy Mass Transport Small Scale Systems APh/EE 109 – Introduction Micro/Nanofabrication Lab APh/Ph 115 – Physics Momentum Transport Hydrodynamic Systems

Requirements for California Institute of Technology

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong background in mathematics and physical sciences
Application Checklist
  • Online Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Most Caltech graduate programs are PhD-only. GRE General and Subject tests vary by department; many have made them optional or no longer accept them.