Mark Drela

Mark Drela is the Terry J. Kohler Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics at MIT and Director of the Wright Brothers Wind Tunnel. His research focuses on computational aerodynamics, aircraft design optimization, and boundary layer modeling. He holds academic leadership roles including former Co-head of the Aeronautics and Astronautics Vehicle Sector (2007–2011).

Education: S.B. (1983), S.M. (1983), and Ph.D. (1985) in Aeronautics & Astronautics from MIT. His work bridges fundamental fluid dynamics with practical engineering solutions, emphasizing design methodologies and high-fidelity CFD tools like XFOIL.

Research interests include transonic flow analysis, low Reynolds number airfoils, and boundary layer ingestion propulsion concepts. His publications consistently address challenges in aerodynamic efficiency and propulsion-aerodynamics integration.

• Awards: AIAA Honorary Fellow (2023), Reed Aeronautics Award (2018), Member of National Academy of Engineering (2009).
• Labs: Wright Brothers Wind Tunnel, Gas Turbine Lab (affiliated).
• Key Projects: Development of XFOIL software, boundary layer ingestion studies, human-powered aircraft design (Third Kremer Prize 1984).