SOUTHAMPTON University chiefs have paid tribute to one of their lecturers who died in a dare devil stunt in Saudi Arabia.

Angelo Niko Grubišic died while carrying out a jump wearing a wingsuit.

The 38-year-old was also a jet suit pilot for Gravity Industries and performed at last year’s Bournemouth Air Festival.

He was the leader of Project Icarus, a programme which aims to develop the world’s first scientifically engineered wingsuit to set world records for human flight.

Mr Grubišic had been a a lecturer in astronautics at the University of Southampton for six years. He gained his PHD in electric propulsion and all-electric spacecraft from Southampton University.

During his career, he spent time working as a research scientist at NASA’s propulsion lab in California.

A statement issued by Southampton University said: “We are extremely saddened and shocked by the death of Angelo and our thoughts are with his family at this terrible time.

“Angelo made many pioneering contributions to the University’s research into astronautics and was incredibly popular with his students and colleagues. We will remain in contact with his family and are supporting staff and students affected.”

Mr Grubišic founded his own company, Flux Engineering, and was the chief flight instructor for Gravity Industries, holding the altitude and speed record in a jet suit without wings.

A statement on his Facebook page said: “Angelo lost his life doing what he loved the most, wingsuit base jumping, and we want to ensure his achievements and ambitions are known to the world and to celebrate the mark he made on all of our lives.”

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