Ian A. Waitz

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