Andrew Rae

Andrew Rae is Professor of Engineering at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), where he leads engineering research and strategy and holds a personal Chair as Professor of Experimental and Applied Aerodynamics. He is also a Visiting Professor at Zhengzhou University of Aeronautics, China, and actively contributes to international research initiatives including NATO, GARTEUR, and the UK Government’s Jet Zero Council.

His research focuses on experimental and applied aerodynamics, with applications in aircraft and racing-car design, unmanned aerial vehicles (notably the 'Phoenix' long-endurance UAV), and low-carbon aviation. He applies aerospace design techniques to wave and tidal energy systems, bridging renewable energy and aeronautics. His recent work includes the Sustainable Aviation Test Environment (SATE) project at Kirkwall Airport, part of the UKRI Future Flight Challenge, and serving as Chief Engineer at Ampaire Ltd, where he led flight trials of hybrid/electric aircraft.

His publications span sustainable aviation, aerodynamic validation, and regional air transport, reflecting a strong trend toward decarbonization, operational efficiency, and innovation in both civil and military aviation. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in sustainable cities and climate action.

• QinetiQ Technical Fellow (2008)
• Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society
• Fellow of the Institution of Engineering and Technology
• Chartered Engineer

Andrew Rae has supervised graduate research and contributed to academic leadership in engineering education. He has been involved in major research grants through UKRI’s Future Flight Challenge and European programmes like Clean Sky. His professional service includes leadership in the Royal Aeronautical Society’s Aerodynamics Specialist Group (Chair 2018–2021) and participation in numerous international technical committees.

He leads the Energy Innovation Team at UHI and collaborates with Highlands and Islands Airports on sustainable aviation infrastructure. His work integrates academic research with real-world engineering applications, particularly in remote and island communities.