Lemmer recognized among elite in aeronautics and astronautics field

Contact: Cindy Wagner
September 29, 2021

Kristina Lemmer
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Dr. Kristina Lemmer, associate professor of aerospace engineering, has been elected to the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Class of 2022 Associate Fellows. AIAA will formally honor and induct the class at a ceremony in San Diego, California, during the 2022 AIAA SciTech Forum in January. 

“I am very honored to be among the elite in my field of aeronautics and astronautics,” says Lemmer. “To know that the work I do has made an impact is very important to me.”

Lemmer was elected for her work to build a space research program at Western as well as her ongoing electric propulsion research. Her nomination reads: “For exceptional leadership in the creation of a new academic aerospace engineering program, and significant contributions to the field of electric propulsion and plasma research.”

The grade of associate fellow recognizes individuals “who have accomplished or been in charge of important engineering or scientific work, or who have done original work of outstanding merit, or who have otherwise made outstanding contributions to the arts, sciences or technology of aeronautics or astronautics.” To be selected as an associate fellow an individual must be an AIAA senior member in good standing, with at least 12 years of professional experience, and be recommended by three current associate fellows. 

“Congratulations to each member of the Class of 2022 Associate Fellows,” said AIAA President Basil Hassan. “This distinguished group of individuals exemplify passion and dedication to advancing the aerospace profession. Each of them was selected because of their significant and lasting contributions to the field. They are truly shaping the future of aerospace.” 

About Dr. Kristina Lemmer

Lemmer is an associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at Western. She holds both a Ph.D. and a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering from the University of Michigan. Her research interests revolve around experimental plasma dynamics; advanced spacecraft propulsion and electric propulsion; and plasma diagnostic development. Lemmer teaches courses in thermodynamics; space propulsion systems; advanced and electric propulsion systems; and molecular gas dynamics.

She has received accolades for both her teaching and research, including the 2021-22 WMU Emerging Scholar Award, recognizing her as a rising star in U.S. higher education. 

For a listing of the class of 2022 and more information about the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, read the full announcement.

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