An early interest in engineering principles has grown into research with broad impact, exemplified by NDU alumnus Patrick Eid (BE’24). While completing his master’s in aerospace engineering at Auburn University, Patrick explored complex fluid mechanics solutions to improve rocket propulsion stability and cooling. His paper, “Evolution of the Bidirectional Vortex in a Capped Ellipsoidal Cyclonic Rocket Engine,” received the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics’ (AIAA) Abe M. Zarem Award for Distinguished Achievement in Astronautics for 2025.
Patrick’s research focuses on improving liquid rocket engines by proposing alternatives to traditional designs. Launching a rocket requires immense thrust generated by burning fuel, usually in a simple cylindrical combustion chamber. His study investigates a vortex-based engine shaped as a semi-ellipsoid, a geometry found naturally in structures like the human eye’s cornea.
In this design, fuel generates a bidirectional vortex that improves mixing and keeps extreme heat away from engine walls. Patrick’s mathematical model precisely describes the vortex’s behavior, offering engineers guidance for designing engines that are lighter, cooler, and more efficient. The semi-ellipsoidal shape is the latest in a series of vortex engine designs, following cylindrical and hemispherical configurations.
The complexity of the research becomes clear at the “mathematical closure” stage. Previous work on hemispherical engines was “a particular case of the semi-ellipsoid,” Patrick explained, making the extension to this broader geometry a major challenge. The process involved “longer and more complex” mathematical formulations that ultimately confirmed earlier findings.
“It’s incredibly satisfying to see a page of dense LaTeX equations suddenly describe exactly how a fluid behaves inside such engines,” he said. The project pushed his analytical modelling skills “to a new level” and required a disciplined approach to fluid mechanics. Along the way, Patrick mastered tools including Mathematica for symbolic programming, Canvas X for scientific illustration, and OriginPro for precise data plotting. The research also refined his LaTeX skills, ensuring the equations were presented with clarity.
Patrick highlighted the importance of mentorship. “This work would not have been possible without the guidance of my advisor, Professor Joe Majdalani. His vision was instrumental in navigating technical challenges, and his expertise in writing and presentation was vital to the project’s success.”
He also expressed gratitude for the support he received from NDU. “I am grateful to Dr. Rudy Al-Ahmar, a fellow alumnus, for his help during the writing process. I also wish to recognize Professor Charbel Bou-Mosleh, Chairperson of the Mechanical Engineering Department at NDU, who first instilled in me the intellectual curiosity that drove me to pursue such research projects.”
Mastering the “mathematical bookkeeping” was the project’s toughest part. Complex fluid flows produced equations filled with trigonometric terms, and the paper had to be completed under a tight deadline while learning Mathematica and Canvas X from scratch. “There were certainly moments of frustration when the software would crash or return errors,” Patrick recalled. “However, pushing through those ‘trial-by-fire’ moments allowed me to make the best out of my situation.”
Receiving the Abe Zarem Award marks a major milestone for Patrick, particularly as the research was recognized nationally by the AIAA, the leading professional society in aerospace. “It has given me the confidence to tackle even more complex problems and has really solidified my desire to pursue a career in high-level research,” Patrick said. On a personal level, the award was equally meaningful. “There is often a bit of ‘imposter syndrome’ when you first arrive at a major institution in the US. Winning this award feels like a clear sign that I belong here,” he noted, turning a daunting challenge into a moment of immense pride for him and his family in Lebanon.
As for his current plans, Patrick recently joined a PhD program in the US, a step he says was shaped by years of preparation and curiosity. “I’ve wanted to be an aerospace engineer since high school, and my undergraduate years at NDU were entirely focused on that goal. Professor Charbel Bou-Mosleh noticed that drive and helped guide me toward the right opportunities. Beyond that, I am driven by a deep curiosity. Curiosity is the starting point for any meaningful discovery and the main reason I want to continue pushing the boundaries of what we know through a career in research.”
For current NDU students and aspiring engineers, Patrick hopes the takeaway is simple: never shy away from challenges. “These are the years to push boundaries and discover what you are truly capable of achieving. Embrace difficult projects and do not be afraid of failure. It is far better to learn from challenging experiences than to wonder ‘what if’ later. The skills and confidence you build now will follow you throughout your career.”