Anna Eaglesham
Mechanical Engineer | Thermal Systems & Heat Transfer | CAD & Simulation (COMSOL, FEA)
STEM Tutor at O'Connor Education
Background
I’m a mechanical engineer with a focus on thermal systems, heat transfer, and mechanical design. I recently completed my MPhil in Materials Science and Metallurgy at the University of Cambridge, where my research focused on modeling regenerative barocaloric cooling systems as a potential solid-state alternative to traditional refrigeration. My work combined steady-state and transient numerical modeling in COMSOL to study how system design, material behavior, and operating conditions influence performance. In addition to my research experience, I’ve worked in both design and hands-on engineering roles, including at Commonwealth Fusion Systems, where I supported structural design and analysis, and at First Solar, where I built and tested a prototype system and troubleshot fluid and mechanical instabilities. Across these experiences, I’ve developed a strong interest in connecting analysis to real-world hardware and designing systems that are both functional and manufacturable. I’m particularly interested in roles that sit at the intersection of thermal systems, materials, and mechanical design, where I can contribute to building and improving physical systems while continuing to learn in a fast-paced engineering environment.
Job experience
- June 2024 - presentSTEM Tutor
O'Connor EducationAs a Physics and Math Tutor at O’Connor Education, I support students in developing strong foundational understanding and analytical problem-solving skills. I regularly translate complex technical concepts into clear, accessible explanations tailored to individual learning styles. Through this work, I am helping improve student performance while strengthening my own ability to communicate technical material effectively
- May 2023 - August 2023Technical Intern
Commonwealth Fusion SystemsDuring my internship at Commonwealth Fusion Systems, I applied CAD and finite element analysis (FEA) tools to assess structural integrity under operational loading conditions. I identified critical stress concentrations and design limitations, proposing modifications that improved manufacturability and system reliability in a highly cross-disciplinary environment. By connecting simulation results to real-world physical constraints, I supported design validation efforts and contributed to iterative engineering decisions within a fast-paced, cutting-edge energy company. I also completed a myriad of side projects such as creating an assembly procedure for a design review and designing parts for experiments. I presented all projects at the conclusion of my internship.
- May 2022 - July 2022Research Assistant
Lund UniversityAs a Research Assistant at the University of Lund, I conducted experimental materials testing using tensile testing equipment to characterize the mechanical properties and strength-ductility paradox of harmonic materials. I analyzed stress–strain data to evaluate material performance and structural response, drawing meaningful conclusions about behavior under load. My work culminated in a formal technical report and presentation, where I clearly communicated experimental methods, findings, and implications to a research audience.
- May 2021 - August 2021Chemical Engineering Intern
First SolarAt First Solar, I designed and fabricated a curtain coating prototype for potential manufacturing applications, working across both lab and production environments. I conducted hands-on testing to evaluate system performance and troubleshoot fluid and mechanical instabilities, identifying root causes and implementing design improvements. Additionally, I assessed the feasibility of integrating the prototype into existing production workflows, balancing engineering design with practical manufacturing considerations.
Education
- University of Cambridge
MPhil in Material Science and Metallury2024 - 2026As an Engineering Research Student at the University of Cambridge, I developed both steady-state and transient numerical models of a regenerative barocaloric Brayton-like cooling cycle to evaluate system feasibility and thermodynamic performance. Using COMSOL Multiphysics, I simulated coupled heat transfer, flow oscillations, and material interactions, systematically analyzing the effects of timing, geometry, and heat exchange on overall efficiency. This work required integrating principles from thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science to understand system-level behavior. I synthesized my methodology, results, and conclusions into a formal technical thesis, which I successfully defended. - University of Michigan
B.S.E in Mechanical Engineering2020 - 2024My undergraduate education in Mechanical Engineering provided a rigorous foundation across core disciplines including mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, and fluid dynamics. The curriculum emphasized hands-on, project-based learning, with annual design projects that required taking systems from initial concept through detailed design, prototyping, fabrication, and ultimately verification and validation. These experiences strengthened my ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering challenges while producing comprehensive technical documentation. In parallel, I contributed to multidisciplinary project teams, collaborating on complex engineering systems and gaining experience in iterative design and cross-functional teamwork.
