Mechanics - Statement of Purpose

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After a careful evaluation, I find this vast area of Solid Mechanics truly fascinating and challenging with its charm drawn from both Physics and Mathematics. Having had a good insight into this subject and a broad view of the various aspects of research currently being pursued, I find this field very promising for my higher studies. Hence, I would like to pursue a doctoral program in applied mechanics with emphasis on mechanics of solids and materials, which would enable me to work in area close to my interests, delve into the intriguing questions posed by this area and contribute significantly.

In my search for a good university to start my career in research, I was advised by my professors and seniors that California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is one of the best places for research in the world and has an excellent solid mechanics group. To know more in detail, I have been going through a couple of recent works of the research groups in Caltech in the areas of shape memory effects and micromechanical modeling of material behavior. I find the research being done in the various areas of solid mechanics and mechanics of materials (more specifically, in shape memory alloys, multiscale modeling, nanomechanics, micromechanical modeling and experimental techniques employed to determine material behavior) very challenging and interesting, and am very eager to play an active part in this research.

I am confident that the excellent research environment, interaction with the faculty and fellow researchers at Caltech will help me to become a good researcher and bring out the best in me. With my strong fundamentals, academic background and zeal and enthusiasm for research, I am confident I will be able to make good contributions to the scientific world with the guidance of the eminent faculty at Caltech. I am eagerly looking forward to pursue research and consider it a great privilege to be admitted into Caltech.

(G. Vikram)

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