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The AWARE Lab is founded on a vision of engineering for human flourishing.* Just as the motions of one parcel of air will affect the dynamics of its neighbors, so too is our work as scientists and researchers inextricably intertwined with the well-being of those around us. Serving our neighbors through our science is thus a core part of our mission, and we are always open to new opportunities to connect our work with communities in need.
Interested in getting involved? Check out the Science Outreach and Community Engagement section of our Openings page for more info. No technical background necessary!
*Inspired by Dr. Francis Su's excellent book, Mathematics for Human Flourishing.
Making the invisible visible.
The mysterious motions of the atmosphere are both innately beautiful in their chaotic complexity and intrinsically integrated with human health, energy systems, and the environment. By integrating science, art, education, and community engagement, we aim to inspire awe in the beauty and power of the atmosphere and make people aware of its importance for their daily lives (pun intended!).
Our collaboration with The Franklin Institute explores the enchanting undulations of the “Shimmer Wall”, a kinetic sculpture by artist Ned Kahn, and what they can tell us about wind patterns and the transport of pollutants in urban environments.
Training the next generation of airbenders.
Air flows in cities directly affect air quality, urban heat islands, and adverse health effects such as asthma, lung disease, and heat-related illnesses. Lower-income neighborhoods are particularly vulnerable to these harmful consequences, as they often lack outdoor shaded spaces and sufficient indoor HVAC infrastructure. We aim to help local communities develop practical, grassroots solutions that leverage ambient winds to improve their health and quality of life.
We collaborate with the University-Assisted Community Schools program, run by UPenn's Netter Center for Community Partnerships, to equip West Philadelphia students with the knowledge and tools to improve ventilation in their schools using hands-on experiments with low-cost sensors like soap bubbles and pinwheels. William Deng (VIPER '28) led a pilot after-school program at a local middle school in Spring 2026, and we plan to continue developing our curriculum in future years.
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