Preston Wilson

Preston Wilson is a Professor in the Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin, holding the Paul D. and Betty Robertson Meek Centennial Professorship in Engineering. He also serves as a Research Professor at Applied Research Laboratories (ARL:UT). His academic journey includes a PhD from Boston University (2001) and BS/MS degrees from UT Austin (1990/1994). Wilson's research focuses on ocean acoustics, seagrass ecosystem monitoring, sediment acoustics, and underwater noise abatement. He leads the Wilson Acoustics Group and co-founded AdBm Technologies to commercialize noise-reduction solutions for marine industries.

His education includes roles as Chair of the Acoustical Society of America's Education Committee (2009–2015) and membership in its Executive Council (2016–2019). Notable awards include the A.B. Wood Medal (2007), Rossing Prize (2019), and ARPA-E funding (2024) for seagrass carbon sequestration monitoring. He holds five U.S. patents, including innovations in coffee roasting acoustics and underwater sound sources.

Research interests span seabed characterization (e.g., New England Mud Patch studies), acoustical oceanography, and bioacoustic applications. His work has been featured in National Geographic, Scientific American, and NPR. Current projects include long-term seagrass meadow monitoring and passive acoustic glider systems for seabed analysis.

Wilson’s academic contributions include pioneering curricula in acoustical oceanography and mentoring students through NSF and ONR grants. His lab at ARL:UT collaborates with industry and government agencies on projects ranging from environmental acoustics to novel acoustic materials.