Deepak Akiwate

Dr. Deepak Akiwate is a University Fellow specializing in aeroacoustics at the University of Salford's School of Science, Engineering & Environment, where he focuses on installed propeller noise prediction and control. Previously, he worked at the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre at the University of Southampton, conducting research on noise prediction for new propeller-driven aircraft architectures.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering from IIT Hyderabad (2014-2019)
• M. Tech in Mechanical Design from IIT Hyderabad (2012-2014)
• Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (2006-2010)

Dr. Akiwate's research spans the critical domain of aeroacoustics with particular emphasis on propeller noise mechanisms, propeller-wing interactions, and innovative noise control solutions. His work bridges theoretical modeling, experimental validation, and practical applications in aerospace engineering. He has made significant contributions to understanding noise generation in unmanned aerial systems, fixed-wing VTOL configurations, and overlapping propeller systems, with applications for urban air mobility. His research integrates cutting-edge additive manufacturing techniques to develop novel acoustic metamaterials and noise control structures.

Analysis of his publication record reveals a clear research trajectory from fundamental acoustic material properties to complex aeroacoustic systems. Early work focused on additive manufactured acoustic materials and periodic structures, while more recent publications center on propeller noise mechanisms in practical aircraft configurations. His research shows strong industry collaboration, particularly with Rolls-Royce and Boeing, and addresses critical challenges in developing quieter aircraft for future urban air mobility applications.

His scientific recognition includes:

• University Fellowship in Aeroacoustics (2023-2028)
• Young Professional Grant from International Institute of Noise Control Engineering (2019)
• Prime Minister's Fellowship Scheme for Doctoral Research (2015-2019)
• Excellence in Research award from IIT Hyderabad (2016)
• Gold Medal from Rajarambapu Institute of Technology (2014)

Dr. Akiwate actively contributes to the academic community as an Early Career Editorial Board member for the journal Drones, peer reviewer for the Journal of Sound and Vibration and Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, and as an organizer for the Quiet Drones 2024 conference. He has secured research funding through projects like FANTASIA (Future Noise Technologies And Systems Integration Analytics) with Rolls-Royce and AKT With Greenjets. As an early career representative for UKAN+ Physical Acoustics, he plays a key role in connecting academic research with industry applications in acoustics engineering.

His work is centered within the Acoustics Innovation Institute at the University of Salford, where he collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to address complex noise challenges in aerospace applications. He has organized significant events including the UK Acoustics Network Plus workshop on Careers in Acoustics and served as session chair for AIAA conferences on propeller noise.