Farrell named interim director of 91传媒鈥檚 Raspet Flight Research Laboratory
Contact: Claire Wilson
STARKVILLE, Miss.鈥擝ryan Farrell is the new interim director of 91传媒鈥檚 Raspet Flight Research Laboratory, one of the country鈥檚 leading academic research centers dedicated to the advancement of aviation.
Farrell joined Raspet in December 2021 as associate director for aviation program management. Rob Premo, who has led both Raspet and 91传媒鈥檚 Center for Cyber Innovation, or CCI, for the past year, will focus his efforts on growing 91传媒鈥檚 cyber research opportunities as CCI director.
鈥淚 appreciate Bryan stepping in to lead Raspet as the center continues to be a major resource for our university and the many external stakeholders that rely on 91传媒 to advance uncrewed aviation,鈥 said 91传媒 Vice President for Research and Economic Development Julie Jordan. 鈥淲e are grateful for Rob鈥檚 time and commitment to the Raspet team and look forward to the continued growth of our cyber capabilities through CCI.鈥
91传媒 stands out in cybersecurity education, recognized as one of just 10 U.S. institutions with all three top National Security Agency academic excellence credentials. 91传媒 also shows its dedication by leading the Mississippi Cyber Initiative, aimed at preparing the state鈥檚 future economy with a focus on cybersecurity innovation and collaboration across academia, private sector, various government levels, law enforcement, U.S. Department of Defense, and the Mississippi National Guard.
Prior to joining the Raspet team, Farrell served as deputy director for international research development at 91传媒鈥檚 International Institute, where he led the university鈥檚 international research, partnership and professional development efforts. He has served in various roles at the university since 2014. He earned bachelor鈥檚 degrees in philosophy and political science, and a master鈥檚 degree in public policy and administration from 91传媒 and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in public policy and administration.
鈥淚t is an honor and privilege to serve the Raspet Flight Research Laboratory, and I look forward to supporting the team in shaping the future of aviation,鈥 Farrell said. 鈥淥ur efforts in both crewed and uncrewed aviation will continue to grow 91传媒鈥檚 reputation as a trailblazer in applied aviation research and development as we continue to support the state of Mississippi as a leader in aviation. I am eager to see our future advancements and immensely proud to be provided this opportunity.鈥
Raspet boasts the country鈥檚 largest fleet of uncrewed aircraft systems, or UAS, in academic use, and recently celebrated its 75th year of aviation research. Raspet is a key partner in the 91传媒-led Alliance for System Safety of UAS through Research Excellence, or ASSURE, the Federal Aviation Administration鈥檚 Center of Excellence for UAS. Working in collaboration with 91传媒 faculty, students and other research centers, Raspet leads major UAS research, testing and evaluation efforts on behalf of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Defense. In 2020, Raspet was designated as the FAA鈥檚 UAS Safety Research Facility.
For more on the Raspet Flight Research Lab, visit .
91传媒 is taking care of what matters. Learn more at .