Ilan Kroo

Dr. Ilan Kroo, Ex Officio

Chair, Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board, National Academy of Engineering

Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Stanford University

Dr. Ilan Kroo is Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Stanford University.  Prior to joining the faculty at Stanford, he worked in the Advanced Aerodynamics Concepts Branch at the NASA Ames Research Center.  His research in aerodynamics and multidisciplinary design optimization includes the study of innovative airplane concepts. He has participated in the design of UAVs flying pterosaur replicas, America’s Cup sailboats, and high-speed research aircraft.  In addition to his research and teaching interest, he is director of a small software company and is an advanced cross-country hang glider pilot.

Dr. Kroo is a fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). He was elected to the National Academy of Engineering for new concepts in aircraft design methodology and for the design and development of the SWIFT airplane. He currently serves as the Chair of the Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board of the National Academy of Engineering. Kroo has a PhD in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford University.