Fluid Dynamics

The Fluid Dynamics program is a part of the Transport Phenomena cluster, which also includes Combustion and Fire Systems, Particulate and Multiphase Processes, and Thermal Transport Processes programs. This program is geared towards supporting fundamental research to understand the nature of various fluid dynamics phenomena. The aim of the research should be to contribute to a fundamental scientific understanding using innovative experimental, theoretical, and computational methods.

Key areas of interest for the program include turbulence and transition, bio-fluid physics, non-Newtonian fluid mechanics, microfluidics and nanofluidics, wind and ocean energy harvesting, and fluid-structure interactions. The program also focuses on hypersonic applications funded jointly with the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR). Special attention is given to bio-inspired and microscopic flows, viscoelastic flows, and macro-molecule solutions.

The program encourages innovative AI ideas related to machine learning in fluid dynamics research. There is also a strong focus on the development of new instrumentation and flow diagnostics. It's important to note, proposals that use fluid flows as a boundary input condition or a driving force do not fit within the scope of this program.

This program is ideal for researchers primarily focused on fluid dynamics. Researchers focused on particulates, colloids, and multiphase rheology and processes should apply to the Particulate and Multiphase Processes program. If the research mainly deals with materials synthesis, processing, and characterization, it may be more suitable for the Advanced Manufacturing program in the Division of Civil, Mechanical, and Manufacturing Innovation or the Division of Materials Research. Research focused on biological systems might be more fitting for the Physiological and Structural Systems in the Division of Integrative Organismal Systems.

Each proposal should highlight the novelty and potential transformative nature of the proposed work, its importance in terms of engineering science, and its potential societal or industrial impact. Most proposal awards last for three years and typically include support for one graduate student and one month of PI time annually.

The program strongly encourages Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) program proposals. In addition, proposals for conferences, workshops, grants for Rapid Response Research (RAPID), Early-concept Grants for Exploratory Research (EAGER), and Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (GOALI) are also welcomed when appropriate, as long as they are discussed with the program director before submission. Non-compliant proposals, according to the Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG), will be returned without review.