Annika Thomas Email & Phone Number

Boston, Ma, Us

For my PhD, I am working in the Aerospace Controls Laboratory with Dr. Jonathan How where I work on open-set mapping in unstructured environments for object-based multi-agent localization. During my master’s, I worked jointly in the Precision Motion Control Laboratory (PMCL) under Dr. David Trumper and in the Space Telecommunications Astronomy Radiation (STAR) lab under Dr. Kerri Cahoy. With a focus on development of advanced control algorithms, I designed a novel spacecraft attitude control system in the PMCL. This work emphasized the application of machine design, electromagnetics, and practical controls in the design, prototyping, and implementation of advanced autonomous systems.In the STAR lab, I led the design of the BeaverCube2 3U CubeSat, set for launch in November 2025. My work involved analysis of thermal and mechanical elements, development of an engineering model and flight model, and manufacturing, assembly, and integration of satellite components.

Greater New York City Area

I worked in the Plasma Dynamics Modeling Laboratory under Dr. Ken Hara to develop a real-time estimator for plasma dynamics in spacecraft electric propulsion systems. This work involved the application of Mathematica and Matlab for computational modeling of plasma physics utilizing control theory.

Troy, New York

During the summer of 2019, I participated in an REU at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute under Dr. Ethan Brown and Dr. Morgan Schaller. My project was multidisciplinary, involving geoscience, astrophysics, and materials science. Over the summer, I designed and tested an experimental framework for detecting damage tracks caused by interactions between Weakly Interacting Massive Particle (WIMP) dark matter and atomic nuclei. I gained extensive experience using an SEM and TEM as well as experience simulating atomic-level events and analyzing their results.Presented research at 2019 Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute REU Symosium [Troy, NY]

I worked in a research lab with Dr. Katie Devine where I visually classified yellowballs to help refine their radius measurements. I worked with images from the Spitzer Space Telescope using SAOImageDS9 and TopCat software. The following year, I investigated the relationship between gas clumps and bubbles to further understand their role in massive star formation. Working with Dr. Devine gave me experience reading and discussing academic articles and working with large sets of data.Presented research at 2018 College of Idaho Student Research Conference [Caldwell, ID]; 2019 College of Idaho Student Research Conference [Caldwell, ID]

I worked with students in Mathematics, Computer Science, Analytical Physics, Spanish, and Organizational Techniques. As a lead tutor, I worked directly with faculty and staff around the school to help manage the tutoring department.

Boise, Idaho

During the summer of 2018, I participated in a Materials Science REU at Boise State University. My project involved designing a microfluidic pump that utilizes the magnetomechanics of Magnetic Shape Memory elements to eliminate moving parts from the pump design. Over the summer, I worked with a group of undergraduates, graduate students, post-docs, and phds daily. I learned how to conduct a variety of characterization tests including X-Ray Diffraction, switching field tests, compression testing, optical analysis, and topological analysis. The microfluidic pump that I designed allows for integration into lab-on-a-chip devices, providing the microfluidics necessary for experimentation in fields such as biomolecular sciences, life sciences, and chemistry.Presented research at 2018 Idaho Conference on Undergraduate Research [Boise, ID]; 2018 Research Experience for Undergraduates Symposium [Alexandria, VA]; 2018 Murdock College Science Research Conference [Vancouver, WA]

Parma, Idaho

In 2017, I worked as a lab technician at a University of Idaho plant pathology lab. My primary objective was to design and optimize a method for DNA extraction to test for plant pathogens. I worked independently to design and manage relevant research projects including optimizing DNA extraction techniques and designing a qPCR assay. The diagnostic techniques and standard operating procedures that I wrote are still being used at several plant pathology research labs in Idaho today. This experience allowed me to work independently and with a team, author a publication, and learn a variety of technical lab skills.

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Mechanical Engineering

Activities and Societies: Member of Columbia Robotics Club, Columbia Climbing Club, Columbia Space Initiative, Columbia Kayaking Club.

Master Of Science - Ms

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Mathematics And Physical Sciences

Activities and Societies: Member of Varsity Women's Golf Team, Varsity Women's Diving Team, Associate Students of College of Idaho Senate.

International Baccalaureate, Emphasis On Stem And Language

Activities and Societies: Member of Student Council, Leo Club, National Honor's Society, Ski and Snowboard Team, Mayor's Youth Advisory.

Doctor Of Philosophy - Phd, Mechanical Engineering