Robert B. MacDermott

Lt Col Robert B. MacDermott, PhD, serves as an Assistant Professor of Astronautical Engineering at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) and Deputy Director of the Applied Research Center for Hypersonics. His role bridges military service with advanced aerospace research, focusing on cutting-edge hypersonic technologies critical to national defense.

His educational background includes:

• BS in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, Purdue University (2005)
• MS in Aeronautical Engineering, Air Force Institute of Technology (2012)
• MS in Management, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide (2013)
• PhD in Astronautical Engineering, Air Force Institute of Technology (2021)

Dr. MacDermott's research centers on experimental and computational hypersonics, with deep expertise in vehicle-wake interactions, thermal radiation phenomena, and material ablation under extreme conditions. His work addresses critical challenges in hypersonic vehicle survivability through rigorous analysis of carbon-carbon composites and radiative heat transfer. This research directly supports defense applications requiring precise trajectory modeling and thermal management solutions.

Publication analysis reveals a consistent focus on hypersonic flow physics, particularly carbon-carbon material behavior in wake expansion regions, infrared signature prediction, and experimental validation of computational models. His collaborative work with JANNAF and defense laboratories demonstrates strong integration of theoretical modeling with high-enthalpy wind tunnel testing.

Professional recognition includes:

• Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society membership
• American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) affiliation

As Deputy Director of the Applied Research Center for Hypersonics, Dr. MacDermott leads multidisciplinary teams in experimental campaigns and computational studies. His research is funded through DoD channels with emphasis on rapid technology transition to operational systems, evidenced by frequent presentations at JANNAF and IEEE conferences. Current projects involve laser diagnostics for wake chemistry analysis and high-fidelity target signature simulation.

The Applied Research Center for Hypersonics serves as his primary research ecosystem, where he directs experimental facilities for hypersonic free-flight testing and develops instrumentation for measuring chemically reacting flows in high-temperature environments.