Mark F. Reeder

Dr. Mark F. Reeder is a Professor and Department Head in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He has been a key faculty member since 2002, progressing from Assistant to full Professor in 2014. His academic leadership and research excellence have established him as a leading figure in experimental aerospace engineering.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, The Ohio State University, 1994
• M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, The Ohio State University, 1991
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, West Virginia University, 1989

Dr. Reeder's research focuses on experimental fluid mechanics, particularly in wind tunnel testing, mixing enhancement for combustion, and micro air vehicles (MAVs). His work integrates advanced diagnostics such as Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), Filtered Rayleigh Scattering, and FLEET to study complex flows in supersonic and hypersonic regimes. He has made significant contributions to cavity flows, store separation, boundary layer transition, and flow control techniques.

His recent publications highlight a strong emphasis on defense-relevant aerospace problems, including cavity aeroacoustics, hydrodynamic ram, and high-speed flow diagnostics. These works span disciplines such as aerodynamics, propulsion, and thermal effects on aircraft structures, demonstrating a multidisciplinary approach to solving real-world engineering challenges.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• AIAA Associate Fellow
• Licensed Professional Engineer (Ohio)
• Member, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
• Elected to the Academy of Distinguished Alumni, WVU Dept. of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
• Holds multiple U.S. patents in fluid systems and aerospace devices

Dr. Reeder has advised numerous graduate students, many of whom co-authored his publications, indicating active mentorship in thesis and dissertation research. His work is supported by defense and aerospace grants, particularly through collaborations with the Air Force, NASA, and industrial partners. He leads a research group focused on experimental validation of aerodynamic concepts, flow control, and advanced measurement techniques. His lab is equipped for high-speed flow testing, optical diagnostics, and wind tunnel experimentation, contributing to both academic and military aerospace advancements.