We develop scalable boundary integral methods for simulating low-Re flows in complex geometries. My current focus is on forward solution, shape and design optimization of micro-swimmers in confined geometries. We derive the spectra of Stokes boundary integral operators on prolate, oblate and ellipsoidal micro-swimmer shapes, integrate with fast solvers such as fast multipole methods and demonstrate super-algebraic convergence of the method. In addition, I’m working on sensitivity analysis required to optimize the shape and function of artificial micro-swimmers such as Janus particles.
Mentor
Shravan Veerapaneni