Abstract: A synthetic jet actuator includes a cavity layer having an internal cavity for reception of a fluid volume and an orifice providing a fluid communication between the cavity and an external atmosphere; an oscillatory membrane having a piezoelectric material adapted to deflect the oscillatory membrane in response to an electrical signal; and a controller configured to control delivery of electrical signals to the piezoelectric material for controlling operation of the oscillatory membrane based on input data received from one or more sources that informs on a temperature and/or performance level of a targeted objected for cooling. The actuator may further include a thermal element for affecting modified temperature control; and the actuator may be integrated into a surface of a thermally diffusive structure for dissipating heat from a thermal load.