Anoop Kiran is a PhD student passionate about robotics of aerospace systems. He researches the unsteady aerodynamics of collective drone flight and their interaction with surrounding environments. Kiran has interned in aerospace roles at Draper, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and Boeing. As a first-generation immigrant, who moved to the United States at the age of 16, he aspires to give back to the country for the opportunities that he has been afforded, including the support from national scholarships and fellowships to pursue his education. Outside of research, he enjoys flying, reading sci-fi, playing soccer, and sharing his experiences to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.

From Anoop: “Feel free to reach out via email: ajkiran[at]brown.edu if I can help answer any questions about
undergraduate research, everything aerospace, or graduate school.”

What are you most proud of in your work or life?

I am most proud of the support system that I have been blessed with – my family and mentors. In every phase of my life, I had doubts. However, the guidance and encouragement that I have received from them helped me weather challenges and view them as opportunities. This is the main reason I feel I might resonate with students who have crossed similar paths as I have had throughout my career.

What are your passions and hobbies?

In my leisure time, I am deeply passionate about staying active and embracing the thrill of physical pursuits. One of my favorite pastimes is running alongside my labmates, a practice that not only keeps me fit but also fosters camaraderie and teamwork. Additionally, I find immense joy in the strategic intensity of soccer matches, relishing the competition and teamwork that the sport demands. Flying airplanes is another of my cherished hobbies; I hold a private pilot’s license and often take to the skies in a Cessna 172. The freedom and adventure of flying bring me unparalleled excitement. When I seek moments of quiet escapism, I immerse myself in the captivating worlds of science fiction literature, where imaginative storytelling takes me on extraordinary journeys beyond the confines of reality. These activities not only provide balance to my academic and professional life but also fuel my curiosity and passion for exploration.

Do you have a personal motto or other words to live by?

I live by Teddy Roosevelt’s quote, “Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground.” It advocates for having aspirations and ambitions but also emphasizes the important balance of staying humble, hardworking, and down-to-earth in the pursuit of those aspirations.

Favorite snack food?

Greek yogurt and mixed berries