Flying animals show a great diversity in appearance and behavior, but little is known about the effect of the morphological diversity on the aerodynamic performance. This project aims to understand the connection between morphology and aerodynamics in animal flight. This include comparing the aerodynamic performance of different wing shapes found in nature. It also includes studying the effect on flow properties by features such as fingers and feathers. Our previous results indicate that the shape of the body may have strong effect on the performance of the wings in birds and bats, and resolving why this is so will be part of the project. The general aim is to increase our understanding of the aerodynamics and evolutionary adaptations to flight in animals, and the results may influence the design of man-made Micro Air Vehicles (MAVs). Experimental techniques include Particle Image Velocimetry (quantitative flow measurements), kinematics (3D reconstruction of motion using high speed cameras), and methods for functional morphology (3D-scanning).
Eligibility
Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in biology, engineering with Aerodynamics/fluid dynamics, physics with components of biology or other subject relevant to the project. Desired qualifications are: basic mathematics, aerodynamics/fluid dynamics, programming experience (e.g. MATLAB), biomechanics and evolutionary theory. The applicant should have knowledge in evolutionary biology or physics/mechanics. Previous experience of biomechanics or knowledge in fluid dynamics is highly desirable.
Study Subject(s): Theoretical Ecology
Course Level: PhD
Scholarship Provider: Lund University, Sweden
Scholarship can be taken at: Sweden
Scholarship Application Deadline: 2011-10-11
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