Thomas Ward

Thomas Ward is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science. His work bridges theoretical and applied research in fluid dynamics, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace systems.

• 2003 Ph.D., University of California Santa Barbara, Mechanical Engineering
• 2001 M.S., Stanford University, Chemical Engineering
• 1998 B.S., Missouri University of Science & Technology, Chemical Engineering with Applied Mathematics minor

Dr. Ward's research focuses on fluid mechanics, high-speed flow physics, and fluid-structure interactions. He explores metal oxidation, processing, and recovery while advancing hypersonic flow modeling and experimental validation. His work extends to microfluidics and multiphase flow dynamics in industrial and biological contexts.

Recent publications analyze CO2 sequestration mechanisms, hypersonic boundary layer interactions, and fluid-driven metal processing. His studies span evaporation dynamics, liquid bridge instabilities, and electrohydrodynamic mixing, with applications in environmental engineering, aerospace, and biomedical devices.

Scientific Awards

• Air Force Research Lab Summer Faculty Fellowship Program Award (2022)

Dr. Ward has advised students in mechanical and aerospace engineering and secured funding from NSF, AFOSR, AFRL, and DARPA. He collaborates with UVA's hypersonic research team and contributes to advanced manufacturing innovations.