Generate a tailored SOP for Dr. Wesley Burghardt. Improve your application with a focused, well-structured draft.
Wesley R. Burghardt is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Northwestern University and serves as Associate Dean for Undergraduate Engineering. His research revolves around the study of rheology and polymer physics, focusing on understanding the dynamics of complex fluids and their non-Newtonian behavior as influenced by intricate molecular and nanoscale structures. With an emphasis on in-situ investigations, Burghardt's work aims to elucidate the origins and mechanisms behind complex rheology in polymers by utilizing powerful X-ray scattering techniques for real-time measurements of polymer structures under idealized shear flows. His research interests further include the organization of structured fluids, surfactants, block copolymers, and liquid crystalline polymers. He leverages Northwestern's Advanced Photon Source synchrotron research facility to advance his studies. Burghardt has notably contributed to several published works, which delve into the rheological behavior of polymer melts and solutions, validating various theoretical models. His extensive academic background is complemented by a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Stanford University, along with master's and bachelor's degrees from the University of Illinois.
Standard PhD requirements for TGS departments including Chemistry, Physics, and Sociology.