Dr. Margaret Pinnell is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Dayton. She has served in a number of leadership roles at the University of Dayton, including the Interim Dean of the School of Engineering, Assistant Provost for Learning and Executive Director of the Ryan C. Harris Learning Teaching Center, Associate Dean for Faculty and Staff Development, Schmidt Chair in Engineering Leadership, Assistant Dean for Recruitment and Outreach and the Acting Director of Ethos. As Associate Dean she orchestrated the development of a highly innovative promotion and tenure document that has received national attention.

She has been actively involved in K-12 STEM education as well as research in community engaged learning since 2001. She has served as the administrative fellow for the Dayton Regional STEM Center, she led the development of the Air Camp structure and curriculum, and was part of a group that led the development of the DO STEM Ecosystem. She has served as PI/Co-PI on several NSF educational grants and various industrial and government grants. She has received several awards and honors for her teaching.

Her technical research areas are primarily in the area of materials testing including testing of biological materials, composite materials, high rate testing of polymers and corrosion studies.