Nathan Knisely is Section Supervisor of the Statistical Sciences section in the System Performance Analysis group at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL). His work focuses on applying operations research, multidisciplinary design analysis and optimization (MDAO), and multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) to complex engineering challenges in defense systems, civil aviation, and business continuity planning.
Dr. Knisely earned his Ph.D. and M.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and holds a B.S. in Physics and Mathematics from Guilford College. He also completed graduate certificates in management and business strategy, with a focus on technology leadership and sustainable business practices.
In the classroom, Dr. Knisely emphasizes the power of clear visual communication, using visualizations, animations, and analogies to make complex ideas accessible. He often incorporates the Socratic method to encourage active engagement and deeper understanding.
Education History
- B.S., Physics & Mathematics, Guilford College
- M.S., Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
- Ph.D, Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
Work Experience
Senior Professional Staff, JHU Applied Physics Laboratory
Publications
Knisely, Nathan CL. “Cyber-physical acquisition strategy for COTS-based Agility-Driven Engineering.” (2016).
Domercant, Jean C., et al. “An Evaluation Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration in the National Airspace System.” 14th AIAA Aviation Technology, Integration, and Operations Conference. 2014.
Knisely, Nathan, et al. “Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration into the National Airspace System-Tradeoff Analysis for En Route Transit Operations.” 12th AIAA Aviation Technology, Integration, and Operations (ATIO) Conference and 14th AIAA/ISSMO Multidisciplinary Analysis and Optimization Conference. 2012.