Katrina M. Legursky

Katrina is a 2008 –  2012 Self Fellow pursuing a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering.  She received a B.S. (2008) in physics and astronomy with minors in mathematics and art from Benedictine College in Atchison, Kan.  While a student at Benedictine, Katrina was captain of the women’s rugby team, was president of the physics and astronomy club, and was on both the dean’s list and president’s list multiple semesters.  Her research experience includes small telescope CCD observations at Benedictine, cryongenic dark matter research at the University of Minnesota, and research with KU’s Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets.  Katrina is an avid sailor and also a private pilot.  Her research interests are in aerodynamic performance and composite materials.  She hopes to open her own firm with a focus on energy through making cars more efficient and wind turbine design.  Long term, she is also interested in designing an America’s Cup yacht. Mentor: Richard Hale, Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering