Ian A. WaitzView profile
Professor
Ian A. Waitz is the Jerome C. Hunsaker Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics at MIT and currently serves as Vice President for Research, overseeing MIT's research strategy, compliance, and major interdisciplinary initiatives including Lincoln Laboratory. He previously led the School of Engineering (2011-2017) and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Undergraduate and Graduate Education (2017-2024). His technical research focuses on aviation environmental impacts, propulsion systems, and policy evaluations. Education: Bachelor's (1986): Pennsylvania State University Master's (1988): George Washington University PhD (1991): California Institute of Technology Key Roles: MIT's senior research policy officer Lead for major institutional educational reforms Strategic leader for multidisciplinary innovation His research pioneered aviation environmental impact modeling, particularly climate and noise effects. Current work emphasizes decarbonizing aviation systems. He advises federal agencies and industry globally, maintaining active participation in NAE and AIAA. Awards & Recognition: National Academy of Engineering membership AIAA Fellow distinction MIT's highest teaching honor: MacVicar Fellowship Advising & Leadership: Directed MIT's response to graduate unionization Expanded undergraduate advising and financial aid systems Launched cross-institutional programs like IDSS and IMES Labs & Affiliations: Founder/director of Laboratory for Aviation and the Environment Cross-cutting role in MIT Lincoln Laboratory governance









