Tyler Van Buren

Tyler Van Buren is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Delaware, part of the College of Engineering. He holds a Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2008–2013). Previously, he served as a Research Scientist at Princeton University (2014–2019), focusing on bio-inspired propulsion, turbulence, and flow control.

His research emphasizes unsteady flows and coherent structures, with a focus on fluid-structure interaction, bioinspired systems, and practical applications in energy efficiency and robotics. Key areas include vortex dynamics, synthetic jet actuation, and turbulent boundary layer control.

Recent work explores optimal parameters for oscillating fins, vortex generator emulation, and eddy self-similarity in pipe flows. His studies bridge fundamental fluid mechanics with real-world impacts, such as improving vehicle design and energy-saving technologies.

Lab activities concentrate on experimental methods for analyzing unsteady flows, including flapping propulsion systems and turbulence-induced phenomena. Collaborative projects address challenges in wind energy harvesting and biomedical fluid dynamics.