Chris Atkin

Chris Atkin is a Professor of Engineering and Head of the Engineering Department at the University of East Anglia (UEA). He holds affiliations with the School of Engineering, Mathematics and Physics, and the Fluids & Structures and Sustainable Energy research groups. His career began at British Aerospace, followed by roles at the Defence Research Agency and QinetiQ before joining academia. He has held leadership roles, including Dean and Head of Engineering at City University of London, and currently chairs the Engineering Council and serves on the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences Executive Committee.

Atkin's research focuses on boundary layer flows, laminar-turbulent transition, and drag reduction technologies, with applications in commercial and military aviation. He advises industries like Airbus and Bombardier, and his work emphasizes practical solutions for aerodynamic challenges. His academic journey includes a PhD from the University of Cambridge in 1990, followed by roles in both industry and academia.

He maintains active collaborations globally and supervises PhD students through UEA’s research programs. His research and advisory roles bridge academic innovation with industrial implementation, addressing technical and commercial barriers in advanced aerospace technologies.