Mario Rotea

Mario Rotea is the Erik Jonsson Chair Professor and Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at Dallas, within the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science. He has held prominent academic and leadership roles at Purdue University, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and served as Program Director at the National Science Foundation. His research is centered on advanced control systems with applications in energy, aerospace, and mechanical systems.

• PhD, Control Science and Dynamical Systems, University of Minnesota, 1990
• M.S., Electrical Engineering, University of Minnesota, 1988
• B.S., Electronics Engineering, National University of Rosario, 1983

Dr. Rotea’s research interests lie in multivariable, robust, and optimal control systems, with applications in noise and vibration control, structural control of wind turbines, and energy storage and conversion systems. His work bridges theoretical control design and practical implementation, particularly in renewable energy integration and aerospace systems. He has made significant contributions to the control of floating and offshore wind turbines and battery-integrated wind farms.

His recent publications highlight a strong focus on control strategies for wind energy systems, particularly in managing power output and structural loads in offshore turbines, and optimizing battery storage for wind farms. The research spans mechatronics, renewable energy integration, microfluidics, and thermal control of electric machines, demonstrating a multidisciplinary approach grounded in rigorous control theory.

Dr. Rotea has received numerous honors, including:

• Fellow, IEEE (2007) – for contributions to robust and optimal control
• CT Sun Excellence in Research Award, Purdue University (2006)
• Seed for Success Award (2004, 2005) – for securing over $1M in grants
• Best Paper Awards at ACC (1989, 1991, 1999, 2001)
• NSF Young Investigator Award (1993)
• NSF Research Initiation Award (1991)
• Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship, University of Minnesota (1989)

Dr. Rotea has successfully led major research initiatives, including directing the WindSTAR center — an NSF-funded Industry-University Cooperative Research Center focused on wind energy science and technology. He has attracted substantial research funding and fostered strong industry partnerships. While specific advisees are not listed, his leadership in research groups and collaborative projects indicates active mentorship. His work continues to influence both theoretical advances and real-world applications in control engineering.

He leads and collaborates with research teams in the areas of wind energy systems and advanced control applications, particularly through the WindSTAR center, which involves collaboration with the University of Massachusetts Lowell and industry partners. These teams focus on improving the reliability, efficiency, and integration of wind energy systems through innovative control solutions.