Intent
We are presently interested in addressing two broad categories of physical problems: one, problems at the interface of low Reynolds number fluid mechanics and capillarity (think effects of surface tension); two, problems related to the hydrodynamics of microswimmers, specifically self-propelling active particles like active droplets. All these problems involve applications of fundamental understanding of fluid mechanics, interfacial phenomena, transport processes, and often, solid mechanics (because many of the problems that we love to work on involve liquid-(soft) solid interaction).
Methods
We approach the problems first using experimental techniques, like lithography, particle image velocimetry (PIV), microscopy (bright field, fluorescence, confocal), high-speed imaging, and goniometry. We then try to substantiate our experimental observations using theoretical (analytical/semi-analytical) models and/or scaling analysis.
Vision
We aim to grow as a curiosity-driven, highly inter-disciplinary group.
©Ranabir Dey