Joseph Jewell

Joseph Jewell is an Associate Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Purdue University, courtesy-affiliated with the School of Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on hypersonic aerodynamics, boundary-layer instabilities, and flow control in high-speed regimes. He leads experimental and computational studies utilizing advanced diagnostics such as focused laser differential interferometry and pressure-sensitive paint in facilities like the Boeing-AFOSR Mach-6 Quiet Tunnel. Key areas include separation bubbles, transition prediction, and hypersonic vehicle inlet design. His work addresses challenges in thermal protection systems, shock-wave interactions, and environmental impacts of hypersonic flight.

Research interests span experimental and numerical analysis of hypersonic flows, with emphasis on quiet flow conditions to isolate fundamental instability mechanisms. He collaborates on projects related to HIFiRE flight experiments and advanced materials for hypersonic applications. His contributions bridge computational models with empirical data to advance understanding of hypersonic aerodynamics.

Recent studies include investigations into ice crystal impacts on hypersonic vehicles, porous material effects on boundary-layer stability, and the dynamics of internal waverider inlets. His work has implications for next-generation hypersonic propulsion systems and reentry vehicles.