Chris Roh

Chris Roh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering at Cornell University, part of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS). His research focuses on fluid mechanics, entomology, and bio-inspired engineering, drawing insights from insect adaptations to fluid environments. He holds a PhD and MS in Aeronautics from the California Institute of Technology and a BS from Cornell University. Roh’s work explores how insects interact with fluids (air, water) and applies these findings to biomedical, agricultural, and aeronautical engineering.

Education:

• PhD and MS in Aeronautics, California Institute of Technology (2017, 2013)
• B.S. in Biological Engineering with Honors and Biological Sciences, Cornell University (2012)

Research Interests: Fluid mechanics, entomology, comparative biomechanics, and bio-inspired engineering. His lab studies insect locomotion, fluid dynamics, and biological adaptations, with applications to engineering systems like uncrewed boats and medical devices.

Awards:

• National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development Award (2025)

Teaching & Labs: Teaches courses on bio-fluid mechanics and ecological mechanics. Leads the Roh Lab, emphasizing experimental techniques and fluid-solid interactions. Recent work includes studying whirligig beetles’ swimming strategies and dragonfly larvae jet propulsion.