Everyone's journey into science is unique. Tanner Harms's path has centered around connecting with community, a love of facts and data, and a penchant for finding beauty in chaos.
The questions and answers below have been edited for clarity and length.
What motivated you to study fluid mechanics?
To be honest, studying experimental fluid mechanics was not my original plan. In fact, I can't say that I have ever had a specific long-term academic plan. I ended up in this field because my undergraduate advisor at the University of Wyoming, Professor Jonathan Naughton, believed in my potential and persuaded me to join his lab to study unsteady aerodynamics. At the time, I had applied to other programs in solid mechanics and mechatronics, but Jon's lab seemed like a good cultural fit, and it allowed me to keep my community in Laramie for a few more years. While I was doing research with him, I realized that I really enjoyed the research process—particularly in learning the data-science tools people use to understand fluids. I wanted to be someone who developed those tools and used them to help others solve a broad range of problems. That is what led me to Professor Beverley McKeon's lab at Caltech [McKeon is the Theodore van Karman Professor of Aeronautics].
What is something from your young life that connects to who you are now?
A common thread throughout my life has been my faith in Jesus as a Christian. My parents raised me on Jesus's teachings in the Bible and, while my worldview has matured over time, my faith remains strong. In fact, it is the impetus behind many of my scientific pursuits. Given the fluids-based nature of my research, one passage I feel speaks to my studies is Psalm 19:1-2: "The heavens declare the glory of God and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge."
What did you enjoy doing most when you were growing up?
I have always enjoyed all kinds of physical activity. I love playing sports, exercising, and going on adventures in the wilderness. However, my favorite sport growing up (and now) was wrestling. I wrestled from middle school all the way through college, and I still get to practice and coach the sport. To me, it feels like a physical variation of chess; you have to anticipate your opponent's response to your techniques and plan three steps ahead.
How did childhood experiences shape the scientist you are today?
My parents put a high value on science and education when I was a child. Their insistence that I learn about the underlying mechanics of the world fostered in me the desire that I now have for understanding and scientific inquiry. Not only d id they value my scientific education at school, but they promoted it in our home. For instance, my sixth birthday party was NASA themed with paper-mache planets hung all around the house.
Why are outreach activities, such as Science Journeys, important to you?
Throughout my life (even to this day), I have not known with confidence what my next steps should be. I have relied on the advice and inspiration of many mentors who have generously given me their time, affection, and confidence. Without their help—without their friendship—I would be nowhere near where I am today. I hope that I can give back to people the way that my mentors have given to me; that I can inspire new generations of talented young people to pursue their dreams in STEM or otherwise.
What advice would you share with your middle school self?
I am so thankful for the trajectory that I have been given that I am not confident any specific advice I might give my younger self would lead to a better outcome. However, here are some reflections that I think my younger self would have done well to ponder:
- It is good to be strong, better to be educated, and best to be kind.
- Humility, gratitude, and generosity are the marks of a truly great leader.
- Community is an antidote to chaos, but one's company may yet lead them to destruction.
- Eat not the bread of anxious toil. Rest is a gift.
- Relationships are life's most valuable currency.
- Sometimes you win; sometimes you lose. Play excellently because you love the game.
- Experience gains interest. Challenge yourself and don't cut corners.
- Always strive to do the right thing, even when it hurts.
On February 23, 2024, Harms presented his Science Journey to a group of approximately 250 students, teachers, parents, and Caltech and Pasadena community members. Watch the full presentation, including the student Q&A, below.
About the Series
In Science Journeys, Caltech graduate students and postdoctoral scholars discuss a range of scientific topics that will spark students' curiosity and provide educators with supplemental resources to continue that exploration in the classroom.
Each one-hour field trip includes a presentation and Q&A. Programs are designed especially for middle and high school students, but everyone is welcome to attend. All events are free through the generosity of the Friends of Beckman Auditorium, but registration is required.
Visit the Science Journeys website to register yourself or your classroom for the April and May 2024 events and to watch past presentations.
Questions? Contact Mary Herrera at [email protected].
