POTSDAM — Clarkson University’s Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering departments will receive $221,517 from the National Science Foundation “to optimize the aerodynamics of Olympic luge sleds,” said an announcement from Rep. Elise Stefanik’s office.

The researchers have a long history of working in Clarkson’s laboratories with the US Luge team that is headquartered in nearby Lake Placid.

“I am proud to announce this grant for Clarkson to support the important research that they conduct,” Stefanik, R-Schuylerville, said in a prepared statement. “This specific project will benefit researchers and students at Clarkson, but also U.S. Luge athletes in Lake Placid and across the United States.”

“American competitiveness in manufacturing and international sport competition have unique synergy for Clarkson faculty researchers when it comes to studies in aerodynamics and drag optimization,” Tony Collins, president of Clarkson University, said in a prepared statement from Stefanik’s office. “We truly appreciate the bi-partisan support from our Congressional representatives for research that brings real-world relevance for multiple sectors in the North Country economy.”