Postdoc at NCPA: Explosive growth and entertainment

Abstract

My postdoctorate from August 1988 to December 1991 at the University of Mississippi and NCPA favorably influenced my career. Thinking back on the cast of characters and the dramatic science being pursued there brings a smile. My main mentors were Dr. James Sabatier, Dr. Richard Raspet, and Dr. Henry Bass. I was involved with theory and experiments for acoustic to seismic coupling; land mine detection; nondestructive measurements of soil properties; and fundamental analysis of Celcor extruded ceramic catalysts as materials for thermoacoustic stacks. We often worked in real-world settings—cotton and soybean fields, and at “Audi Acres” where we used massive low frequency speaker elevated with construction scaffolding and a winch as sound sources. I worked hours with Mike the machinist constructing acoustical resonators and thermoacoustic heat engines. The vibrant social and political scene was something to behold—including early morning jogging in the Faulkner woods, regular basketball games at lunch; visiting politicians and program managers, dancing on tables at the Gin; Friday nights at Dr. Bass’ house; visitors from acoustic institutions around the world; Starnes catfish restaurant.