Project Grant 2622058

The National Science Foundation Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems awarded the University of South Florida $211,939 on July 15, 2026, under the Engineering program (CFDA 47.041) to investigate propulsion hydrodynamics in small animals and translate findings to engineering applications.

The research will combine high-speed imaging, fluid velocity and pressure measurements, and computational fluid simulations to study how representative organisms using three major forms of propulsion—jetting, body undulation, and coordinated paddling—achieve high transport efficiency at intermediate Reynolds numbers where neither fluid inertia nor viscosity dominates. Experimental measurements will integrate with computational models to identify fluid-structure interactions responsible for enhanced performance and develop predictive relationships linking body motion and flow characteristics. The project will support development of robotic vehicles and biomedical device innovations by applying animal-inspired solutions to engineering constraints that similarly limit small pumps, medical devices, and underwater vehicles.

The award period runs from July 15, 2026, through June 30, 2029, with performance at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. The project includes interdisciplinary research experiences for undergraduate and graduate students, K–12 educational materials development, and public engagement through partnerships with marine science organizations and outreach programs.