• 2020 STEM Hero •
Natasha A.
Chang, Ph.D.
Hydroacoustics and Data Analytics Engineer, Acoustic Signatures Technology Division Signatures Department, Puget Sound Detachment
Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division
As the Hydroacoustics and Data Analytics Engineer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division, Puget Sound Detachment, Dr. Natasha A. Chang is a Subject Matter Expert in acoustics and fluid mechanics.
She develops empirical models and experimental methods to study multiphase flow, hydrodynamic/aeroacoustic sound sources to provide guidance to the U.S. Navy on the impact of those sources on far-field acoustic signature.
Dr. Chang applies expertise in acoustics and fluid mechanics to submarine designs, permitting the Navy to achieve enhanced vehicle survivability through increased stealth while reducing ship design and lifecycle costs.
In her cutting-edge data analytics work, Dr. Chang and her team are training computers to alert a submarine operator about the vessel’s acoustic posture, enabling operators to take action before a potentially dangerous situation.
As the Science and Technology and Research & Development lead for the Navy’s Condition Based Maintenance project, the Caracas-born Dr. Chang makes valuable contributions to applications that predict machine failure.
A holder of five degrees from universities including Dartmouth, MIT, and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor — where she earned her doctorate in Mechanical Engineering — Dr. Chang is also a mentor for the Naval Engineering Education Consortium, where she guides a diverse group of students in the conduct of essential research for the Signatures Department.