Dr. Mark Drela

Professor

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Biography

Mark Drela is a renowned professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics. His research expertise lies in the development of computational algorithms for predicting 2D and 3D external flows around aerodynamic bodies. His work encompasses subsonic, transonic, and supersonic flow regimes. Drela's significant contributions include the formulation of viscous/inviscid coupling schemes and efficient computational methods for aerodynamics, with a focus on high-lift multielement airfoils and wing/body configurations. Drela also emphasizes optimization techniques in conjunction with his aerodynamics research. He is actively involved in teaching fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and aircraft design, shaping the next generation of engineers. Throughout his distinguished career, Drela has received numerous accolades, including the Honorary Fellow designation from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and the Reed Aeronautics Award, highlighting his impact on aeronautical engineering.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2001-01-01 — Present

Massachusetts Institute of Technology • Cambridge, MA

Terry J. Kohler Professor and Director of the Wright Brothers Wind Tunnel; leading research in computational aerodynamics.

Associate Professor

1991-01-01 — 2000-01-01

Massachusetts Institute of Technology • Cambridge, MA

Conducted research and taught courses in aerodynamics and fluid dynamics.

Assistant Professor

1986-01-01 — 1991-01-01

Massachusetts Institute of Technology • Cambridge, MA

Engaged in teaching and conducting pioneering research in aeronautics.

Awards

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Honorary Fellow

2023-01-01
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Reed Aeronautics Award

2018-01-01
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Theoretical Fluids Best-Paper Award

2017-01-01