Dr Albert S.J. (Stevan) van Heerden he/him

My research passion is designing sustainable air transport systems that are adaptable, efficient, and environmentally responsible. To do this, I develop computational tools that combine traditional aircraft design, physics-based system simulation, and systems-of-systems analysis to support the development of advanced civil aircraft and operations. My group is motivated by the challenge of reimagining aerospace systems so they contribute meaningfully to achieving net-zero goals, while remaining robust, cost-effective, and practical for industry.

The complexity of sustainability challenges demands interdisciplinary solutions. I am particularly interested in collaborations that bring together aerospace, computer science, energy and infrastructure systems, and the social sciences. Within a CDT setting, I would like to supervise projects that connect aircraft design with broader systems thinking—such as embedding new aircraft technologies into future transport infrastructures or exploring the societal impact of sustainable aviation. I see supervision as a partnership: I set clear expectations but place equal emphasis on encouragement and intellectual independence. Several of my graduates now work for companies such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce and SAFRAN, applying their training to deliver innovation in practice.

I view equality, diversity, and inclusion as fundamental to research excellence. Different perspectives generate better ideas, and I am committed to fostering a culture where all students feel they belong. At the University of Glasgow, I continue to look for ways to make my teaching and supervision more equitable, inclusive, and responsive to individual needs.

Beyond research, I find inspiration in screenwriting, music, hiking, watching good films, reading interesting books, and spending time with friends and family. I also relish engaging with students outside formal teaching, whether in career conversations or sharing reflections on balancing research with life. For me, science is not only about solving problems but also about sparking curiosity, and I always endeavour to bring that spirit into both my work and my mentoring