Integrated Design of Efficient Aerospace Systems Laboratory

Computational systems design and optimization for next-generation aircraft and propulsion concepts.

IDEAS Lab

The IDEAS Lab is a research group in the Aerospace Engineering Department at the University of Michigan. We develop computational frameworks and tools for the design and optimization of next-generation aerospace vehicles and propulsion systems. Our research integrates physics-based modeling, machine learning, multidisciplinary design analysis and optimization, and digital engineering workflows to design and study complex engineered systems across component, vehicle, and fleet levels. Read more about our research here. Interested in joining, supporting, or collaborating with the IDEAS Lab? Learn more about ways to work with us.
Dr. Gökçin Çınar (goeck-chin chin-r) is an Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Michigan and the Director of the IDEAS Laboratory. She leads research at the intersection of computational design and optimization, model-based systems engineering, and AI/ML methods to accelerate exploration, systems-level studies, and decision-making for future aerospace concepts. She is the recipient of the 2025 AIAA Lawrence Sperry Award and the 2024 SARES Young Scientist Award for her contributions to electrified aircraft systems, and several best paper awards from AIAA and IEEE. Learn more about Gökçin...

Recent News

Maxfield Arnson Receives Rackham Pre-Doctoral Fellowship
IDEAS Lab’s PhD student, Maxfield Arnson, has been awarded the Rackham Pre-Doctoral Fellowship. This fellowship recognizes outstanding doctoral students at the University of Michigan and supports the final stages of dissertation research.
Last updated on Apr 27, 2026 1 min read awards
Maxfield Arnson Receives Rackham Pre-Doctoral Fellowship
Paul Mokotoff Receives Towner Prize for Distinguished Academic Achievement
IDEAS Lab’s PhD student, Paul Mokotoff, has been awarded the Richard F. and Eleanor A. Towner Prize for Distinguished Academic Achievement. This award recognizes outstanding graduate students in the University of Michigan College of Engineering for excellence in research, academic performance, and leadership.
Last updated on Apr 27, 2026 1 min read awards
Paul Mokotoff Receives Towner Prize for Distinguished Academic Achievement
Çınar Receives 2025 AIAA Lawrence Sperry Award
Dr. Gökçin Çınar has been honored with the prestigious 2025 AIAA Lawrence Sperry Award for her ‘pioneering research and innovative contributions to electrified aircraft systems and sustainable aviation.’ This award recognizes exceptional contributions made by professionals aged 35 or younger to the advancement of aeronautics or astronautics.
Last updated on Jan 27, 2025 1 min read awards
Çınar Receives 2025 AIAA Lawrence Sperry Award
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Recent & Upcoming Events

AIAA SciTech Forum 2026
IDEAS Lab members and collaborators presented three papers at AIAA SciTech Forum 2026 on MBSE/MDAO coupling, SUSAN reliability studies, and advanced aircraft MDAO.
Jan 12, 2026 — Jan 16, 2026 Orlando, FL
AIAA SciTech Forum 2026
2025 IEEE/AIAA ITEC+EATS
IDEAS Lab presented three papers at the 2025 IEEE/AIAA Transportation Electrification Conference and Electric Aircraft Technologies Symposium.
Jun 18, 2025 — Jun 20, 2025 Anaheim, CA
2025 IEEE/AIAA ITEC+EATS
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