Dr. Jonathan Jones
Class of 1987
Following his graduation and a two-year stint as a missionary in Louisiana, Jonathan Jones attended Brigham Young University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Physic. While at BYU, Jones focused on fusion energy attempting to replicate cold fusion and on low energy nuclear experiments.
Upon completion of his degree, Jonathan earned his Master’s Degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering focusing his research on solar thermal propulsion. As a Utah State University student, Jones was awarded the prestigious Von Braun Propulsion Fellowship to the University of Alabama in Huntsville where Jones earned his doctoral degree. His dissertation explored the feasibility of a magnetohydrodynamic accelerator coupled with a microwave plasma generator.
With his doctoral degree secured, Jones was hired in the newly formed Propulsion Research Center at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. In this position, Dr. Jonathan Jones has guided multiple research and developmental efforts. His research spans from tine microwave plasma thrusters to the large solid rocket motors used on the Space Shuttle and now on NASA’s Space Launch System. During his tenure with NASA, Dr. Jones has received numerous recognitions and awards for his service including in 2009 NASA’s Exceptional Engineering Achievement Medal “for exemplary technical leadership in the development of methods for investigation of Ares 1st stage thrust oscillation mechanisms and mitigation.”
When United States Vice President Mike Pence recently challenged NASA and the nation to place the first woman and the next man on the moon by 2024, Dr. Jones was asked to join the Human Landing System Chief Engineer’s Office. He has served in this capacity and is looking forward to the return of American astronauts on the moon.
As a mentor/educator, Dr. Jones has worked with many fellowship recipients at the NASA Propulsion Academy and at NASA Space Technology Research. Students mentored by Dr. Jones are now employed at multiple aerospace firms and NASA centers. Being a part of their success is among Dr. Jones’ most rewarding accomplishments.
Downplaying his role at these high levels, Jonathan states his toughest, yet most rewarding job has been that of a husband and father to his wife and six children, He has served as a scout master, a soccer coach and has supported the many band concerts, ballet performances and cross-country track meets in which his family have been involved.