Women of ERCOFTAC

Interview with Dr Cornelia Grabe

Head of Department "Center for Computer Applications in AeroSpace Science and Engineering"
at the Institute of Aerodynamics and Flow Technology at DLR Göttingen, Germany

Cornalia holds a Diploma and PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Stuttgart and is a specialist in physical modeling
for computational fluid dynamics to be applied in external aerodynamics. She is also a leader of a DLR-project that aims for improved prediction of aerodynamics using computational fluid dynamics at the border of the flight envelope.

Was there a woman who inspired you to get into your field?

She's not directly a fluid mechanics person, but Margaret Hamilton, software
designer in the Apollo programme was a huge inspiration.

What motivates you to work on fluid mechanics, or what you find fascinating about it?

Fluid dynamics is something everyone is in contact with. However, it is still a mystery and we are far from having answered all the questions.

Or, with the words of Horace Lamb: "I am an old man now, and when I die and go to heaven, there are two matters on which I hope for enlightenment. One is quantum electrodynamics and the other is the turbulent motion of fluids. About the former, I am really rather optimistic."

What advice would you give to young women wanting to get into STEM?

My experience is that women working in STEM are often very inspiring with great and open minds. Like you.

What are the benefits of being a member of ERCOFTAC?

ERCOFTAC offers the chance to connect to fluid mechanics experts, both, close by and throughout Europe.