This National Science Foundation (NSF) Biological Sciences (CFDA 47.074) Project Grant provides $480,650 to the University of Portland to study the evolution of duck foot shape and its relationship to swimming ability. The research project aims to quantify duck foot anatomy, build physical models of duck feet, and robotically test how foot shape and paddling impact swimming performance. Key project activities include undergraduate student involvement in analyzing CT scans of duck specimens, constructing physical foot models, and measuring hydrodynamic forces in a water flume. The study results could inform the design of industrial and robotic paddles as well as advance understanding of avian evolutionary patterns. This project also funds an undergraduate professional development program to support diverse STEM researchers. The award period is from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2028.
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