People

  1. Seebany Datta-Barua

    Director

    Professor (sdattaba@iit.edu)

    Seebany Datta-Barua is a Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, Illinois. Her research interests are in space weather forecasting through imaging and estimation of the dynamics of the upper atmosphere. Professor Datta-Barua is especially interested in using radio waves from Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) for remote sensing; in using tomography and data assimilation of these measurements for improved atmospheric prediction; and in mitigating atmospheric effects on GPS-based aircraft navigation systems.

    She received her B.S. in physics, and M.S. and Ph.D. (2008) degrees in aeronautics and astronautics, all from Stanford University. From 2008 to 2010, she was a Research Engineer at Atmospheric and Space Technology Research Associates (ASTRA). Prior to joining Illinois Tech in 2012, Prof. Datta-Barua was an Assistant Professor of Aviation and Technology at San Jose State University. She has taught classes in spacecraft dynamics, advanced dynamics, the space environment, private pilot ground school, and aviation safety.

  2. PhD position in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

    Graduate

    Our lab is seeking a graduate student in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering to advance understanding of magnetosphere-ionosphere-thermosphere coupling through data assimilation.

    One research assistantship is available starting in Fall 2024 or Spring 2025. The position offers a stipend and a tuition waiver. Experience in space physics, aerospace or electrical engineering, or statistics, along with strong programming skills, is desired. Candidates with technical backgrounds in other fields (e.g., atmospheric physics, applied mathematics, or a closely related discipline) who are interested in space weather applications and upper atmospheric forecasting are also encouraged to apply. U.S. citizenship is preferred but not required.

    Prospective students are invited to contact Seebany Datta-Barua for additional information. Application information for Graduate Programs in MMAE is available at https://www.iit.edu/admissions-aid/apply.

    Illinois Tech’s Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering program provides students with the latest research-based education and knowledge through advanced coursework, state-of-the-art and original research, and publication of novel results in preparation for careers in academia and industrial research and development. Information on faculty, research, and degree programs in the MMAE department can be found at https://www.iit.edu/mmae.

    Illinois Tech is home to a diverse and global student population and strongly encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply for this position, especially those underrepresented in the field. The main campus is located three miles from downtown Chicago and in close proximity to many industries in the greater Chicago area.