These research topics involves small scaled experiments, model equations can be written and theoretical predictions can be made. They lie on the boundary of physics and engineering, where engineering problems are being solved with the minds of physicists. The instabilities investigated are usually associated with the nonlinear effects of the flow, which lead to qualitatively new phenomena that do not occur in linear system. One of the exciting discoveries in the lab is the recurrence of organized structures in the Taylor-Dean system(See Thesis of Juan Arrecis 1997). A Taylor-Dean system consists of a layer of fluid contained between two rotating concentric cylinders. A sequence of flow patterns (from an organized roll pattern to a chaotic flow pattern) occur as the rotation rate of the cylinder increases. It is a paradigm for studying route to chaos in a real physical system.

These research topics are especially suitable for involving undergraduate students in forefront research. The experimental setup can be constructed within relatively short amount of time, and the experimental results can usually be visualized. It is also hoped that these research projects will stimulate strong interactions between physics, engineering and mathematics.