Ed Whalen

Ed Whalen serves as Professor at Washington University since joining the faculty in 2025, following a 17-year research and development career at Boeing Company where he pioneered active flow control technology including flight demonstrations on a Boeing 757 and contributions to the DARPA X-65 program.

His academic foundation includes:

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, 2007
• MS in Aerospace Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, 2003
• BS in Aerospace Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, 2001

Professor Whalen's research spans Thermal-Fluids applications across Energy, Aerospace, and Biomedicine domains with specialized focus on experimental aerodynamics. His expertise encompasses active flow control systems, aircraft icing effects on stability and control, and the complete technology development lifecycle from laboratory validation to real-world implementation. He emphasizes preparing engineers to solve high-impact problems through applied fluid mechanics knowledge and strategic technology transition frameworks.

Professional recognition includes:

• Associate Technical Fellow designation at Boeing for advancing active flow control
• Associate Fellowship in the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Holding 13 patents, Professor Whalen's industry leadership involved directing engineering teams in advanced actuator systems and guidance/navigation/control within Boeing's Chief Technology Officer organization. His academic mentorship philosophy centers on translating complex engineering challenges into practical student learning experiences, though specific current advising relationships and grant funding details remain undocumented in available sources.

At Boeing, he managed cross-functional teams developing flight-critical systems, with his most recent role leading technology strategy initiatives. Current laboratory infrastructure and research teams at Washington University are not specified in the source materials.