The Missouri S&T community is saddened to learn of the death of Dr. S.N. Balakrishnan, Curators’ Distinguished Professor of aerospace engineering. He died Sunday, Jan. 24.  

Dr. Balakrishnan, who joined S&T’s faculty in 1985, was internationally known for his work in developing missile guidance algorithms and intelligent control. His research was supported by grants from the Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Naval Surface Warfare Center, the Air Force, and the Missile Defense Agency. He delivered keynote addresses and invited lectures in several countries. He published numerous journal articles with his students, and many of his students won top awards at national and international conferences. He was affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.  

Dr. Balakrishnan served on Missouri S&T’s Faculty Senate and led the senate as president from 2012-13.  

Members of Missouri S&T’s counseling staff are available to assist students, faculty or staff members affected by Dr. Balakrishnan’s passing. Those who wish to seek counseling services may contact the counseling office by calling 573-341-4211 or by emailing counsel@mst.edu. At this time, Counseling Services is offering virtual appointments to ensure appropriate social distancing and help minimize the potential spread of COVID-19. Additional counseling and support information is available at counseling.mst.edu.