Bert Blocken

Prof. Bert Blocken is a Full Professor of Mechanical Engineering (Aerodynamics) at Heriot-Watt University and part-time Full Professor of Civil Engineering (Building Physics) at KU Leuven. He leads research in subsonic aerodynamics, CFD, and wind tunnel testing, with applications in urban physics, building aerodynamics, and sports engineering. His work bridges academia and industry, supporting elite sports achievements like Tour de France wins and world records in marathon running and triathlon.

Education: PhD in Civil Engineering/Building Physics (KU Leuven, 2000), MSc in Mechanical Engineering.

Research focuses on aerodynamic optimization for sports equipment and urban environments. He has published 253 peer-reviewed articles (h-index: 80/86/101 on Web of Science/Scopus/Google Scholar), advised 34 PhD students, and developed a MOOC in Sports & Building Aerodynamics. His awards include Clarivate's Highly Cited Researcher (2018-2024) and Engineering.com's 'Engineers Who Mattered' (2020).

Media contributions include TV appearances on cycling aerodynamics, Wall Street Journal features, and podcasts. He collaborates with organizations like the UCI, INEOS, and Red Bull on world record projects.

Leads the design of Heriot-Watt's state-of-the-art wind tunnel and serves as Editor for Building & Environment and Associate Editor for Sports Engineering.