Federal Grant Award Summary

Syracuse University received a $251,787 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems under the Engineering program (CFDA 47.041), effective February 1, 2026, through January 31, 2029. The award funds research to develop and advance a computational framework called Harmonic Resolvent Analysis, which identifies flow disturbances that meaningfully control vortex behavior in unsteady, vortex-dominated flows. Unlike existing analytical methods that assume steady background flow conditions, this physics-based approach incorporates time-varying base states to capture cross-frequency interactions and enable more targeted, energy-efficient control strategies for vortices that arise around structures such as bridges, aircraft wings, and underwater vehicles.

In addition to advancing fundamental research capabilities, the project integrates education and outreach as key deliverables. Syracuse University is developing virtual reality learning tools that enable undergraduate and graduate students to explore complex airflow patterns in an immersive computational environment. These educational products will enhance instruction at Syracuse University and will be disseminated to local K-12 students through community partnerships to inspire interest in science and engineering careers. The research outcomes support advanced manufacturing applications across multiple vehicle and infrastructure sectors by providing engineers with improved methods to anticipate and control vortex-induced challenges such as drag, noise, and structural vibrations.