Junior Research Fellow

Job Description

Project Title: Development and testing of a bioinspired flapping wing model with morphing capability for aerial and aquatic locomotion Duration of Initial Appointment: 3 months (extendable up to 1 year or until the project's completion, which is 3 years. The extension will be granted based on satisfactory performance and regular advertisement of the JRF position.) Brief description of Project: This study explores bioinspired locomotion for next-generation unmanned vehicles. A morphing wing model will be fabricated and tested for aerodynamic and hydrodynamic performance in both wind and water tunnels. Experiments using force/torque sensors and PIV flow visualization will elucidate vortex dynamics, while CFD simulations and reduced-order models will predict thrust and power to support the experiments. Essential Qualification and Experience: B. Tech/M. Tech/M.S./M.E. (Mechanical/Thermal/Thermofluids/Aerospace/Applied Mechanics or related field). Candidate with B. Tech degree only must have a valid GATE score or admitted in B. Tech program through national level exam such as JEE. Desirable Qualification and Experience: • Strong foundation in engineering mathematics, fluid mechanics, and aerodynamics • Background in experimental fluid mechanics • Hands on experience with wind and water tunnel testing including flow visualization techniques (PIV, shadowgraphy, Schlieren, etc.) • Familiarity with ANSYS/COMSOL/OpenFOAM or other similar CFD softwares and GUIs. Job Description: • Conduct experiments on a flapping wing setup in wind and water tunnels. • Measure aerodynamic and hydrodynamic forces, thrust, and power using force/torque sensors. • Perform flow visualization using a PIV-DIC setup to analyze vortex patterns. • Perform numerical simulations to complement the experimental work. • Develop and validate scaling laws for various wing shapes and designs. How to Apply: Interested candidates have to send their CV before 17th April, 2025 to nipun@iitj.ac.in.