Rajan Kumar speaks at the dinner banquet during the launch celebration of the joint FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering held at Moor Hall in the Longmire Building at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida on December 10, 2025. (Scott Holstein/FAMU-FSU College of Engineering)
Rajan Kumar, Ph.D., has been designated a University Eminent Scholar Professor at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments in research.
Kumar is a Florida State University faculty member, the director of the Florida Center for Advanced Aero-Propulsion and chair of the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the joint college. He has received national and international recognition for his work and deep commitment to education and mentorship and his continued service to the college and broader academic community.
“Professor Kumar’s leadership and research excellence have made a lasting impact on our College and beyond,” said Suvranu De, dean of the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. “His appointment as University Eminent Scholar Professor is a testament to his commitment to advancing engineering education and fostering innovation, setting a powerful example for our faculty and students alike.”
During Kumar’s distinguished service to the college, he has received more than $50 million in research funding from the Department of War, NASA, National Science Foundation and major aerospace industries. He has published more than 200 papers in leading aerospace journals and conferences.
Kumar’s current research interests include experimental aerodynamics, supersonic and hypersonic flows, advanced flow diagnostics, active flow and noise control, and development of high-speed test facilities.
The University Eminent Scholar designation is a prestigious endowed chair position awarded to top-tier professors who demonstrate leadership, research output, and national or international distinction in their fields.
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