Vivek Uppoor

University of Maryland

Vivek Uppoor is a Ph.D. student in aerospace engineering at the University of Maryland, where he conducts research at the Alfred Gessow Rotorcraft Center under the guidance of Dr. Inderjit Chopra. He earned his B.S. (2022) and M.S. (2025) in aerospace engineering from UMD. Vivek's research focuses on lift and thrust compounded rotor systems at high advance ratios, aiming to enhance performance and expand the rotorcraft high-speed flight envelope. His work integrates wind tunnel testing and comprehensive aeromechanics modeling to evaluate performance, loads, and vibrations trade-offs and expand the understanding of rotorcraft capabilities in high-speed flight. Beyond his academic pursuits, Vivek is passionate about aircraft design. He intends to enter the VTOL industry to work on early-stage vehicle development, advancing innovative rotorcraft and eVTOL concepts after completing his Ph.D. He is also actively involved in student engagement, serving as the Director of Competitions for the Vertical Flight Society Student Council, where he promotes student innovation in vertical flight design challenges.