MIT Researchers Honored for Engineering Excellence with NAE Membership in 2025

Eight researchers from MIT have recently been elected as members of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) for 2025, joining a prestigious group of 128 new members and 22 international members. Additionally, 13 more alumni from MIT have also received this distinguished honor.

Prestigious Recognition in Engineering

The NAE membership represents one of the highest accolades for engineers, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to engineering research, practice, or education. This includes notable advancements in engineering literature, pioneering new technology fields, and innovative approaches in engineering education.

Outstanding MIT Electees

This year’s electees from MIT include Martin Zdenek Bazant, an esteemed professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering, recognized for his work on nonlinear electrochemical phenomena and energy storage applications. Moshe E. Ben-Akiva, a professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering, received accolades for his advancements in transportation systems modeling. Charles L. Cooney, a professor emeritus in Chemical Engineering, was honored for his influential role in the global biotechnology industry.

Other notable electees include Yoel Fink, who was acknowledged for his innovative photonic fibers that enhance surgical procedures, and Tomás Lozano-Pérez, recognized for his contributions to robot motion planning and molecular design. Kristala L. Prather has been commended for her innovative methods in metabolic regulation for chemical production. Eric Swanson was honored for his entrepreneurship in biomedical imaging, while Evelyn N. Wang received accolades for her contributions to clean energy and nanotechnology.

“This honor reflects their exceptional contributions to the field of engineering.” — Anantha P. Chandrakasan, Dean of MIT School of Engineering

Celebrating Broader Excellence

Anantha P. Chandrakasan, dean of the School of Engineering at MIT, expressed his excitement over the recognition of these eight researchers and other MIT members by the NAE. He emphasized that this honor reflects their exceptional contributions to the field of engineering and extended his heartfelt congratulations.

In addition to the eight new electees, thirteen other alumni have also been inducted into the NAE this year, further showcasing MIT’s commitment to engineering excellence and innovation.