Prof. Wim van Rees

Professor Wim's main research interests are to develop and apply advanced numerical simulations to solve problems in bio-inspired propulsion, vortex dynamics, and shape-shifting structures. His vision for future research is to exploit biologically inspired active and passive deformation of flexible structures in fluid flows for actuation, locomotion, and renewable energy harvesting.

The van Rees Lab is a research group interested in using computational methods to solve forward and inverse problems in science and engineering. Expertise is in developing accurate, high performance numerical methods, and using these to find optimal solutions. We tackle problems in vortex dynamics, such as vortex-vortex interaction and helicity dynamics.

Furthermore, the lab investigates optimal bio-inspired swimmers: here we use evolutionary optimization techniques to optimize the gait and shape of self-propelled swimmers. Finally, work extends to the design of shape-shifting structures. These are structures that change their shape when subject to an environmental stimulus such as heat, light or humidity.