FLUID MECHANICS AROUND ANIMALS
THE ROLE OF TURBULENCE IN ROOSTING BEHAVIORS OF AMERICAN CROWS
The objective of the proposed research is to investigate how American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) interact with atmospheric turbulence, focusing on their flight dynamics and potential exploitation of turbulent conditions. While large-scale flow phenomena have been studied, the interactions between birds and small-scale turbulence remain underexplored. Wild American crows are particularly suitable for this research due to their frequent exposure to varied turbulence, their learned strategies for responding to gusts, and their abundance in upstate New York. This study aims to deepen our understanding of these dynamics by drawing parallels between crow flight paths and the behavior of lightly inertial particles in turbulence.
This project is currently seeking graduate and undergraduate students. Interested individuals should contact Dr. Laurent at klaurent@syr.edu
THE IMPACT OF WAVEFORM ON THE FLAPPING EFFICIENCY OF MANTA-INSPIRED WINGS
Studying the impact of waveform on the flapping efficiency of manta-inspired wings is essential for optimizing bio-inspired propulsion systems. Manta rays are known for their efficient, undulating swimming patterns, where the shape and motion of their wings generate thrust with minimal energy expenditure. By analyzing how different waveforms—such as sinusoidal or more complex, asymmetric patterns—affect the propulsion efficiency of flapping wing mechanisms, we can better understand the principles that govern natural swimming efficiency. This knowledge can then be applied to improve the design of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and other bio-inspired robotics, leading to more energy-efficient and maneuverable systems.
This project is currently seeking undergraduate students. Interested individuals should contact Dr. Laurent at klaurent@syr.edu
SIGNATURES OF TURBULENCE IN RAPTOR FLIGHT
While most research has focused on identifying and understanding the use of these large scale structures, natural environments are highly complex, and it is possible that soaring birds may also benefit from some of the smaller structures in the flow. The ability to access the energy available in these structures would further decrease the energetic cost of flight, and small changes in the behavior of soaring birds may be indicative of their relationship with these structures.
Related Publications
LATEST NEWS
01.16.2025 – Undergraduate student Sona Flask joins the lab! Her SOURCE-funded project aims to understand how textured surfaces which mimic shark skin can reduce drag.
11.25.2024 – PhD student Adhip Gupta presents his work at the APS Division of Fluid Dynamics conference. Read the abstract here
10.18.2024 – In collaboration with Dr. Lui, Dr. Laurent receives funding from SOURCE for undergraduate research for Spring – Fall 2025. Learn more about the project and how to get involved here!
08.05.2024 – Dr. Laurent presents Birds, Planes, & Aerodynamics at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.
07.16.2024 – Dr. Laurent volunteers for TACNY’s Summer STEM Trekker Program. Read more about it on our “Outreach” page!
06.03.2024 – Undergraduate student Maximilian joins the lab for a summer REU-funded project! This project aims to develop an experimental setup for measuring the forces on a flapping wing.
06.03.2024 – Undergraduate student Joshua Varkey joins the lab! His SOURCE-funded project aims to design and analyze flow visualization techniques for a low-speed water tunnel.
02.15.2024 – Dr. Laurent receives funding from SOURCE for undergraduate research for Summer & Fall 2024. Learn more about the project and how to get involved here!
02.07.2024 – Dr. Laurent’s collaborative work with local company OpB Data Insights is published in Experiments in Fluids. Read the article here
01.20.2024 – Dr. Laurent presents Birds of Prey in Flight: Exploring the Aerodynamics of Birds of Prey at the Museum of Science and Technology in Syracuse.
12.11.2023 – Dr. Laurent presents her research at Clarkson University’s Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Graduate Seminar
08.28.2023 – Undergraduate student Kazi joins the lab! His research project examines drag-reduction in car designs.
01.17.2023 – Undergraduate students Sophia and Alex join the lab! Their SOURCE funded project examines how fish bodies reduce drag.
09.29.2023 – Dr. Laurent receives funding from SOURCE for undergraduate research. Learn more about the project and how to get involved here!
08.29.2022 – Undergraduate student Cody joins the lab! His research project examines optimal flapping patterns in manta-inspired robots.
08.22.2022 – Dr. Laurent arrives at Syracuse University to start her role as an Assistant Professor.
03.10.2023 – Dr. Laurent presents her research at Syracuse University’s Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Graduate Seminar
03.02.2022 – An interview with Dr. Laurent is published in BBC Wildlife – read the article here
JOIN OUR TEAM!
There are open opportunities for PhD and master students. Highly motivated undergraduate students are encouraged to reach out as well. Please email your CV with a brief introduction to klaurent@syr.edu