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Nickolas “Dan” Macchiarella serves as a professor of Aeronautical Science at ��ݮ��Ƶ, where he previously held roles as department chair and academic dean. His research integrates cutting-edge technology with environmental and cultural preservation, focusing on the use of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) equipped with advanced remote sensors.

Dr. Macchiarella’s current projects utilize UAS platforms to collect environmental data that supports decision-making for climate adaptation and resilience. His work employs artificial intelligence (AI), photogrammetry, LiDAR and multi- and hyperspectral imaging to study ecosystems, cultural heritage sites and archaeological locations.

As Principal Investigator and operational test pilot, he leads several major research initiatives, including:

• COASTech–Brevard Zoo Collaboration: Using UAS to monitor Florida’s eastern coastal ecosystems, with emphasis on sea turtle lifecycles, seagrass health, harmful algal blooms, and shoreline erosion.
  

• NOAA Sea Grant – Indian River Lagoon Project: Assessing the impact of climate change and human activity on regional resilience through green infrastructure prioritization.

• NSF – Cape Canaveral Green Stormwater Infrastructure Project: Leveraging UAS remote sensing and LiDAR to evaluate water flow systems that reduce urban flooding and enhance coastal adaptation.

Beyond research, Dr. Macchiarella leads study abroad programs where students conduct hands-on service learning, applying UAS technology to address real-world environmental and societal challenges. A recipient of the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Award, he has contributed internationally to advancing STEM education and the preservation of cultural heritage through aerial technologies.