We are excited to share that Dr. Shabnam Mohammadshahi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at New Mexico State University, has been awarded a $100,000 research grant from the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) to lead an experimental investigation into high-speed fluid dynamics.

The one-year project, titled “Experimental Study of Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics of a Supersonic Impinging Oscillating Jet,” will examine the complex behavior of supersonic jets used in high-speed applications—particularly in systems like short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft. These jets generate highly unsteady flow fields that result in extreme dynamic pressure loads on surrounding surfaces.

Through this research, Dr. Mohammadshahi and her team will explore how varying nozzle pressure ratios and impingement distances affect flow stability and the formation of coherent structures. The study will utilize advanced in-situ experimental techniques, including thermographic phosphor thermometry and Schlieren visualization, to observe and analyze the intricate jet-surface interactions.

In addition to advancing knowledge in the field of high-speed aerodynamics, this project will also offer hands-on research opportunities for undergraduate students, introducing them to flow diagnostics, experimental methods, and data analysis techniques critical in aerospace engineering.

We are proud to support Dr. Mohammadshahi’s continued contributions to aerospace research and student mentorship at NMSU.