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Research

Aeronautics & Astronautics Strategic Plan

2022-2026

Research

Define and invest in our research identity in terms of scholarship and creative activity in alignment with next generation aerospace.

Close up of mini drones

Strategies

  • Clearly defined goals and values for excellence in research.
  • Active partnership planning and matching.
  • Strong system for research recognition.

Stage one assessment activities

First year (2022)

  • Model chosen to assess key ingredients of a positive research culture: Andrew Cheetham, Building a culture of research: Recommended practices.
  • Recommendations mapped to key values of a positive research culture.
  • Assessment of current state of department research culture.
  • Pilot activities launched: (1) New advertising protocol for student general and final exams. (2) New Graduate Research Showcase (May 23, 2022)

  

STRATEGY 1

Clearly defined goals and values for excellence in research.

FIVE-YEAR GOAL

  • 5 yr hiring plan updated annually
  • Clear definition of Department's research values incorporated into merit review
  • At least 75% of MS students engaged in research
  • At least 50% of BS students engaging in at least one research quarter
  • Graduate 0.75 PhDs per faculty member per year
  • Regular achievement of awards by current / graduating students at all levels

  

STRATEGY 2

Active partnership planning and matching.

FIVE-YEAR GOAL

  • Average annual RCR units of 2 per PI
  • At least 30% of RCR coming from industry on average program
  • Strong faculty research mentoring program including research and collaboration exchanges among junior and senior faculty
  • Strong mentoring program for MS and PhD students with feedback mechanisms throughout degree program
  • Strong student onboarding and ongoing engagement with frequent, informal research and collaboration exchanges
  • Technology taxonomy assessment for A&A, UW, WA to inform partnerships

  

STRATEGY 3

Strong system for research recognition.

FIVE-YEAR GOAL

  • Research awards program for faculty based on research values (complementing student awards).
  • Annual series of formal and informal events and presentations to share research and promote attendance and exchange of ideas.