Paul Major

Paul Major is a Full Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Turin, where he has established himself as a leading researcher in aerospace systems. He serves as a member of the PhotoNext Interdepartmental Center for Applied Photonics and the University Internship Commission, demonstrating his commitment to interdisciplinary research and student development across multiple domains of engineering.

Professor Major's research focuses on digital twin technology, prognostics and diagnostics of aerospace systems, and embedded sensor systems. His work bridges theoretical modeling with practical applications, particularly in the areas of augmented reality for aircraft monitoring, optical fiber sensors for structural health monitoring, and machine learning applications for predictive maintenance of electromechanical systems. His research has significant implications for improving aircraft safety, efficiency, and sustainability, with applications extending to lunar exploration technologies and space habitat design.

His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward integrating advanced computational methods with physical systems, particularly in the domains of lunar exploration technology, additive manufacturing for aerospace applications, and sustainable aviation solutions. The interdisciplinary nature of his work spans aerospace engineering, computer science, materials science, and control systems, reflecting the increasingly interconnected nature of modern engineering research. His team has made significant contributions to optical sensor integration, AR visualization for maintenance, and prognostic frameworks for electromechanical systems.

Professor Major actively mentors doctoral students, with current advisees including Matteo Bertone, Pierluigi Vergari, Armando Vittorio Atzori, and several others working on cutting-edge aerospace projects including lunar drones, aircraft anti-icing systems, and electromechanical actuator diagnostics. He has secured numerous research grants from both competitive funding bodies and commercial contracts, including projects like ASTRA (Advanced Space Tethers for Remote-sensing Applications), SmartCore, and FreME (Freno Multidisco Ad Attuazione Elettromeccanica Smart).

He leads the ASTRA research group focused on Additive manufacturing for Systems and sTRuctures in Aerospace and is actively involved with the student team ICARUS. His work has practical applications in both terrestrial and space environments, with recent projects addressing lunar exploration technologies, sustainable aviation solutions, and advanced monitoring systems for aerospace applications.