Recent University of Hartford graduates Jagbir Singh Shergill (Master of Engineering) and Tucker Rice (BS in Aerospace Engineering) co-authored and presented a research paper at the 2026 ASME Fluids Engineering Division Summer Meeting (FEDSM 2026) which was held July 26–29 in Bellevue, Washington.
The conference celebrated the 100th anniversary of the ASME Fluids Engineering Division, bringing together researchers from around the world to share advances in computational fluid dynamics, artificial intelligence, microfluidics, multiphase flow, energy sustainability, and other areas of fluid engineering.
Their paper, ‘Evolution of Leading-Edge Vortices over a 75° Sweptback Delta Wing in Subsonic and Supersonic Flow,’ investigates the complex aerodynamics of highly swept delta wings using advanced computational fluid dynamics CFD. By comparing high-fidelity numerical simulations with experimental measurements, the study improves understanding of vortex behavior in both subsonic and supersonic flight, providing insights that support the aerodynamic design of next-generation high-speed aircraft.
The research was conducted under the mentorship of Professor Ivana Milanovic in collaboration with Frank Y. Wang of the U.S. Department of Transportation Volpe National Transportation Systems Center. The project reflects the University of Hartford's commitment to engaging students in research that leads to publications and presentations at premier international engineering conferences.
Following graduation, Shergill joined a NASA-funded aerospace startup in Mountain View, California, developing technology for a lunar lander, while Rice will begin doctoral studies in mechanical engineering at the University of Connecticut this fall. Their achievements demonstrate how undergraduate and graduate research experiences at the University of Hartford prepare students for advanced study and careers at the forefront of engineering.