Ruby Krishnamurti

Nature on the grand scale of the oceans and atmosphere has had a compelling attraction that has always challenged the human mind. I received my Ph.D. in Physics and worked in stability theory, transition to turbulent convection and on laboratory and mathematical models of the large-scale wind-driven ocean circulation. My interest in turbulent convection continues and it has led to the discovery of a new kind of order in an otherwise chaotic flow. I have also been studying double-diffusive instability, with new results which I am hoping to apply toward a better understanding of ocean circulation.

One of the stimulating things about being a professor is that each student brings with him his own particular interests and style of addressing problems. Thus, I have directed M.S. and Ph.D. students working in bioconvection and on the heat budget of oil-contaminated Arctic Sea ice, as well as on stability and transition to turbulence. I am proud of their accomplishments as well as their subsequent professional development.