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Education

• Ph.D. in Environment Biotechnology and Microbiology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, 2008
• Master of Science in Aeronautics (Safety & Management Specialization), Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide, 2019
• Master of Philosophy in Coastal Aquaculture, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, 1997
• Master of Science in Environmental Biotechnology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, 1996

Biography

Dr. Rajee Olaganathan is an aeronautical scientist and environmental biotechnologist with over 20 years of combined research and teaching experience in higher education. She joined Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide in 2014. Previously, she had worked at esteemed institutions such as the National University of Singapore, James Cook University and the University of Nevada - Las Vegas. She holds the distinguished status of a Fellow Member of the Royal Aeronautical Society, United Kingdom.

Dr. Rajee's expertise extends beyond academia. She has designed and developed two professional educational programs for Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University - Asia, namely, Airport Wildlife Management and Airport Wildlife Operations, which is offered by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as its TRAINAIR Plus programs. Since 2019, Dr. Rajee has provided training for these courses, equipping aviation professionals with essential knowledge in managing wildlife-related challenges at airports.

Dr. Rajee has been appointed as a guest lecturer (external) by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). In this capacity, she has been entrusted with developing and delivering a thought-provoking module on "Sustainable Aviation" for the Civil Aviation Management Programme: Developing an Air Hub course. Her industry involvement extends further, as she currently serves as a director for multiple small and medium enterprises in Asia that specialize in avionics sales and services. Her valuable expertise and strategic guidance significantly contribute to the growth and success of these aviation sector businesses.

Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Rajee has pursued interdisciplinary research and teaching, striving to find practical solutions to aeronautical and environmental challenges. Her exceptional contributions have been widely recognized, with 34 published research papers and 12 conference presentations to her credit. Notably, she has made valuable contributions to understanding the impact of the global pandemic, with two research publications specifically addressing COVID-19. These papers have gained significant media attention, leading to interviews by renowned outlets such as Bloomberg News, where she discussed her research findings on the "Impact of COVID-19 on Pilot Proficiency - A Risk Analysis." Furthermore, her research paper titled "Impact of COVID-19 on the Airline Industry and Strategic Plan for Its Recovery With Special Reference to Data Analytics Technology" has garnered attention from media outlets across the UK, Europe, Asia and Africa.

Dr. Rajee's dedication to the advancement of scientific knowledge is further exemplified by her role as an editorial member and peer-review panel member for numerous international peer-reviewed journals. She has meticulously evaluated over 85 research papers submitted to various international publications, contributing to the scholarly discourse within her field.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Rajee embodies a global perspective. She was born and raised in India, resided in Singapore for a decade, and relocated to the United States eight years ago. She is a senior member of the Civil Air Patrol, a U.S. Air Force Auxiliary Organization, where she serves as an assistant aerospace education officer and actively participates in aerospace education and cadet programs. Driven by her commitment to personal growth, she continuously strives for self-improvement and considers herself a lifelong learner.

In her leisure time, Dr. Rajee indulges in her passions, including traveling, appreciating music, and cherishing moments with her son and husband. A testament to her diverse interests is the recent achievement of her Level 1 Instructor Certification from U.S.A. Archery, demonstrating her dedication to mastering new skills and embracing new experiences.

Courses Taught

• SFTY 320 - Human Factors in Aviation Safety
• ASCI 202 - Introduction to Aeronautical Science
• RSCH 202 - Research Methods
• PHYS 142 - Introduction to Environmental Sciences
• PHYS 102 - Explorations in Physics
• SAW 1000 - Airport Wildlife Management

Courses Approved to Teach

• MSHF 640 - Human Physiology and Adaptation

Research Focus

Dr. Rajee's research endeavors encompass a diverse range of interdisciplinary areas, each contributing to a deeper understanding and advancement of key fields. Her research focus includes: Impacts of Current Events on the Aviation Industry, Aviation Safety Management, Human Factors in Aviation, Sustainable Aviation Fuel, Occupational Safety and Health Hazards, Aviation and Environmental Sustainability, Food Production for Earth and Mars (Aquaculture), Water Technology/Treatment, Environmental Microbiology, Biotechnology and Pollution.