Postdoctoral scholar wins award at annual symposium and poster competition

Francesca Bernardi, a Dean’s Postdoctoral Scholar in Florida State University’s Department of Mathematics, was recently recognized at the Annual Fall Symposium and Poster Competition, sponsored by the FSU Postdoctoral Association. She received an award for her poster in the Physical Sciences division, which illustrated her dissertation research in the field of fluid mechanics.

On her poster, Bernardi modeled the spreading of a solute in a straight pipe (in this case, a fluorescent liquid) and how it is affected by cross-sectional geometry, with shapes varying from elliptical to rectangular and 1 to 10 millimeters in size.

Bernardi expressed her excitement at winning the award.

“This research has been my main focus for five years, so it feels great to be recognized for it,” she said.

Washington Mio, chair of the Department of Mathematics, said he appreciates Bernardi’s energy and the rigor that she brings to her research.

“Francesca is not the traditional mathematician. It is refreshing to see her developing and analyzing mathematical models of very complex physical systems, while also doing experimental work in the lab to bridge theory and practice,” Mio said. “Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious and become even more transparent when she talks about her mathematical models and their ties with the development of medical drug delivery systems and microfluidics technologies.

“Winning this poster competition is a highly deserved recognition of her work, and I am sure that we will hear much more from her in the future.”

Bernardi joined Florida State’s postdoctoral fellows this past summer, after receiving her Ph.D. in mathematics, focusing on applied mathematics, from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

As a postdoctoral fellow, Bernardi simultaneously teaches and conducts research. She also serves as a member of the FSU Postdoctoral Association, advocating for and promoting engagement in all aspects of postdoctoral affairs.

Gabriella Paez is a senior English major, with a concentration in editing, writing, and media.