Sidaard Gunasekaran

Dr. Sidaard Gunasekaran is an Associate Professor and holds the Hans von Ohain Chair in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Dayton. He is affiliated with the School of Engineering's Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. His research focuses on low Reynolds number flows, unsteady fluid dynamics, and aerodynamic efficiency optimization. He has received several awards, including the 2018 Vision Award for Innovation in Teaching and the 2016 Outstanding PhD Research Award.

Dr. Gunasekaran earned his Ph.D. and M.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Dayton. He teaches courses such as MEE 225 Introduction to Flight, MEE 401 Fundamental Aerodynamics, and AEE 590 Advanced Data Science in Aerodynamics. His work integrates experimental and computational methods, with a focus on propeller performance, wing design, and wake energy harvesting.

His research highlights include studies on propeller-ground/ceiling effects, wind lens turbine performance, and vortex dynamics. He has mentored students like Jielong Cai, Asa Palmer, and Daniel Curry, who have contributed to award-winning projects. His pedagogical innovations, such as problem-based learning in aircraft design, are featured in academic journals and institutional publications.

• Awards: 20+ honors, including teaching and research distinctions
• Grants: Multiple projects funded by institutional and external bodies
• Labs/Teams: Active in aerodynamics, propulsion, and experimental facilities at the University of Dayton