Who we are

The Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics (AEM) Department at the University of Minnesota is proud to have a rich history of producing excellence in education, outreach, and innovative research.

Aerospace engineers play a major role in the technological advancement of our society — not only by designing aircraft and spacecraft, but through their visionary work in fields ranging from biomedicine to computing.

While emphasizing mechanics, our programs are designed to ensure that students are well grounded in the fundamentals of engineering to become exceptional contributors to an exciting and vital industry. Our alumni are currently pursuing rewarding careers in the academia, industry, and defense sectors around the world, doing vital work that touches everything from scramjets and commercial aircraft to space-related missions at NASA.

Perry Leo

Professor & Department Head

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Ryan S. Elliott

Professor & Director of Graduate Studies

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Yohannes Ketema

Professor & Director of Undergraduate Studies

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Hongna Byström

Senior Administrative Director

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Academic excellence

AEM is deeply committed to immersing students in hands-on learning that connects academic projects to real-world challenges we face as a society, through rigorous and groundbreaking research. We also frequently work in tandem with other leading universities, laboratories, and businesses

Innovative research

Award-winning and internationally recognized faculty conduct state-of-the-art experimental, theoretical, and numerical research and students have unique opportunities to work closely with faculty. Research is conducted in one of many departmental facilities, from the Wind Tunnel Lab to the Laboratory for Turbulent and Complex Flows. Faculty and students also participate in interdisciplinary research and collaborations with groups such as the Saint Anthony Falls Laboratory. Faculty conduct research in three key areas:

Aerospace Systems

Fluid Mechanics

Solid Mechanics

Acclaimed, accessible faculty

AEM students thrive in a close-knit and highly supportive small community within a large, urban university environment. Our award-winning and internationally recognized faculty educate and advise approximately 350 undergraduate and 100 graduate students. These instructors get to know each student individually and pride themselves on their accessibility and responsiveness.

People-first approach

The Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics (AEM) strives to provide a supportive educational and professional environment for scholars, students and staff. We believe that diversity in all of its forms is beneficial and that a strong education improves the lives of individuals and fosters healthy, thriving communities. Collaboration among people of all cultures and backgrounds enhances our experience as scientists and contributes to excellence in teaching, learning, and research. We strive to promote a climate that celebrates our differences and strengthens our department by embracing and working to increase our diversity.

4th

Ranked in the nation by Princeton Review’s Gourman Report on Undergraduate Programs

12th

Ranked among public universities in the U.S. News 2026 rankings of aerospace engineering graduate programs

17th

Ranked overall in the U.S. News 2026 rankings of aerospace engineering graduate programs

Who we are

Leadership

Perry Leo

Ryan S. Elliott

Yohannes Ketema

Hongna Byström

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