Dr. Charles E. Harris is the Director of the Research and Technology Directorate at NASA Langley Research Center.  Dr. Harris provides strategic leadership in the technical areas of aerosciences, airborne systems, materials, and structures in support of the NASA missions in space operations, exploration, and aeronautics.  Prior to his current position, Dr. Harris was a Principal Engineer in the NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC) (2003-2006). Dr. Harris led the investigation of 4 problems that contributed to the successful return-to-flight of space shuttle Discovery (mission STS-114) after the Columbia accident. He also led the investigation of the STS-114 External Tank PAL Ramp debris loss In-Flight Anomaly (IFA).  Dr. Harris is a subject matter expert in the field of structural integrity and has published over 150 research papers and technical reports on the durability and damage tolerance of metallic and composite materials for aerospace vehicles.  Other senior NASA positions held by Dr. Harris include Project Manager of the National Institute of Aerospace (2002-03), Deputy Director of the Structures and Materials Competency (2000-02), Chief Technologist for the Structures and Materials Center of Excellence (1997-00), Assistant Chief of the Materials Division, Manager of the NASA Aging Aircraft Program (1991-97), and Head of the Mechanics of Materials Branch (1987-94).  Prior to joining NASA in 1987, Dr. Harris was a professor of Aerospace Engineering at Texas A&M University (1984-87) and a professor of Engineering Mechanics at Virginia Tech (1980-84).  From 1974 to 1980, Dr. Harris was a structural engineer in the nuclear division of the Babcock & Wilcox Company.  He is a Professional Engineer licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia since 1977.  Dr. Harris earned a BS in Aerospace Engineering, and an MS and PhD in Engineering Mechanics from Virginia Tech.