Project Info

* Modeling the Synchronization of Cilia Outside a Sphere

Cilia are present on any types of cells and have a myriad of functions. A common feature is the coordinated beating of groups of cilia, and much research has gone into exploring the origin of this synchronization. This project is interesting because it provides an introduction to a large field of mathematics, fluid dynamics, and focuses on a specific application with real world significance.

More Information

https://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.109.268102

https://arxiv.org/abs/1511.05485

Grand Engineering Challenge: Not applicable

Student Preparation

Qualifications

Having taken, or currently taking, Linear Algebra and Intro to Scientific Computing.

Time Commitment

12-24 hours/month

Skills/Techniques Gained

Students will first become familiar with analytical and numerical approaches to fluid flow governed by Stokes equations. Stokes flow is applicable to viscous fluids and fluids at small scales, so there are plenty of applications in biofluids. In particular, the student will work on simulations analyzing the synchronization of oscillators outside a sphere as a model of the synchronization of cilia on the algae Volvox.

Mentoring Plan

We will have weekly meetings to check in on progress and set explicit goals for the following week.