Molly Dolan receives Vertical Flight Society scholarship after gaining research experience
Thursday, July 10, 2025
Media Contact: Tanner Holubar | Communications Specialist | 405-744-2065 | tanner.holubar@okstate.edu
Molly Dolan is a mechanical engineering student who has developed a deep passion for research. It is a love she has found after transferring to Oklahoma State University’s College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology after three years as a softball pitcher, first at Northern Oklahoma College-Enid and then Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
A mechanical engineering student with a growing interest in aerospace, Dolan gained experience as an undergraduate researcher studying with Dr. Sicheng Kevin Li, an assistant professor in the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Dolan has now been awarded a prestigious scholarship from the Vertical Flight Society.
She is recipient of the Dr. Wei Chong (Ben) Sim Memorial Scholarship, honoring a U.S. Army acoustics research scientist. The VFS scholarships are highly competitive and prestigious, with Dolan being one of nine undergraduate students in the country to receive a scholarship.
“Being recognized by such a respected organization is not only validating, but also deeply motivating,” Dolan said. “It reflects the hard work and dedication I’ve invested in my studies and research, and it inspires me to continue striving toward excellence in the field of rotorcraft and vertical flight technology. This scholarship is both a milestone and a launching point for future contributions that I can provide within the aerospace industry.”
Li said he is very proud of Dolan receiving a VSF scholarship, which is a full-circle moment for him.
“As a former VFF Scholarship recipient myself, I’m excited to see one of my students recognized in this way,” Li said. “Training the next generation of scientists and engineers for the American aerospace and defense industry is the top mission at my Rotorcraft Aerodynamics and Aeroacoustics Lab. Molly exemplifies the importance of bridging classroom knowledge with real-world engineering problems.”
After starting at OSU in 2024, Dolan learned of an opportunity to be a research assistant with Dr. Li working in his lab. She spent months broadening her knowledge of aerodynamics and aeroacoustics before joining the team. Since then, she has been involved with two research projects, one of which will continue into the fall 2025 semester.
“CEAT has allowed me to develop a solid foundation in both mechanical and aerospace principles, especially as they relate to vertical flight,” Dolan said.
One of her prime focuses has been studying how to reduce acoustic emissions while improving aerodynamic efficiency. Working with Li, Dolan explored how the performance of propellers affects aeroacoustics.
"This includes analyzing how thrust output varies in response to unsteady wind gusts, as well as investigating the effects of airwake interactions on rotor efficiency and noise generation,” Dolan said. “Through a combination of experimental testing and data analysis, our goal is to better understand and mitigate the environmental and operational challenges faced by next-generation vertical flight systems.”
She has also worked on testing propellers and characterizing the windshaper used in the airflow aspect of the research.
“This project will create new knowledge in propeller responses to unsteady gusts, potentially enabling new technologies in rotorcraft noise, ship deck landing, and VTOL performance,” Li said.
Dolan has gained experience presenting research at conferences, as she attended a NASA University Leadership Initiative workshop on unmanned aerial systems. She has also been recognized as a Wentz Scholar for 2025-26.
“Dr. Li’s belief in me and the time he’s invested in improving me in the field of aerospace and research has shaped my interests and success tremendously,” Dolan said.
Dolan will pursue a master’s degree in either aerospace engineering or mechatronics and robotics while continuing her research. She hopes to work in research and development, as she has a passion for solving challenges and creating innovations using cutting-edge technology.
Working with Li, Dolan has gained valuable lessons in persistence and keeping an open mind to new solutions.
“One of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of engineering is problem solving,” Dolan said. “In research, this is especially prominent — every project presents unique obstacles that often don’t have straightforward solutions. I’ve encountered many situations where existing methods or answers didn’t apply, requiring me to think critically, adapt quickly, and sometimes develop entirely new approaches.”
Dolan is thankful for the experience she continues to gain during her time as a CEAT student.
“I’ve found new friends and mentors, received a summer internship at CEAT’s fall career fair, been challenged in the largest classes I’ve ever been in, and expanded my knowledge and love for engineering deeper than it’s ever been. Thank you, OSU, and Go Pokes!” Dolan said.