Eric Swanson, Economist, University of California, Irvine | University of California, Irvine
Eric Swanson, Economist, University of California, Irvine | University of California, Irvine
Two faculty members from the University of California, Irvine, have been elected to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), a significant professional honor in the field. Kyriacos Athanasiou and Eric Rignot are among 128 new U.S.-based members recognized for their contributions to engineering research, education, and practice.
NAE membership acknowledges those who have significantly advanced engineering through pioneering work in emerging fields or innovations in traditional areas. The academy's statement highlights these achievements as key criteria for election.
"Congratulations to Professors Athanasiou and Rignot on this exceptional professional achievement," stated Hal Stern, UC Irvine provost and executive vice chancellor. "Election to the academy is a recognition of their impactful scientific contributions to society, which are helping to provide bioengineering solutions for musculoskeletal afflictions and to advance our understanding of the effects of global climate change."
Athanasiou, who holds the title of Henry Samueli Chair of biomedical engineering, was acknowledged by the NAE for his work on musculoskeletal conditions and leadership in bioengineering. His research group is renowned globally for its focus on tissue regeneration across various medical disciplines. Athanasiou expressed gratitude: "I am deeply honored by this recognition by my peers in the National Academy of Engineering."
Rignot was recognized for his research into climate change impacts on polar ice sheets using advanced technologies like synthetic-aperture radar satellites and submersible robots. He remarked from East Antarctica: "I am very thankful to have heard about this honor by the National Academy of Engineering while on expedition... It means a lot to me, our research group at UC Irvine, and to our glaciological community."
With these elections, UC Irvine now boasts 17 members in the NAE.
The university continues its Brilliant Future campaign launched in October 2019, aiming to engage alumni and raise $2 billion in support for student success and research excellence.
Founded in 1965, UC Irvine is part of the Association of American Universities and ranks among America's top public universities. For more information about UC Irvine or media inquiries, visit their official website.
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