Education: PhD, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2009. MS, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2002
Research focus: Dynamics, orbital mechanics, control, artificial intelligence
Joins Iowa State from: Lecturer position, Rochester Institute of Technology
Recognitions and awards: My research has been published in top journals and has received numerous citations from researchers around the world. I have also been nominated for full membership for the American Astronomical Society and am a member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. Finally, I have done research projects for NASA centers, DOD and DOE Laboratories.
How do you hope your research discoveries impact the world?
Optimal control methods can allow systems to achieve the highest performance possible. For example, aerospace systems can operate at higher altitudes and/or velocities with minimum cost. Fundamental research results can also be appied to other systems such as robotics, energy systems and financial systems.
What kind of classroom and teaching experience do you look forward to creating at Iowa State?
I strive to provide a positive learning environment where students are free to ask questions and actively participate in the learning process. Students should also see the importance of the discussed topics in real-life applications.
What drew you to join Iowa State?
Iowa State is a major research university with a renowned aerospace engineering department, which excites me.