Panneer Selvam, a professor of civil engineering at the University of Arkansas, has achieved the distinction of being named a Fellow of the Engineering Mechanics Institute (EMI). This esteemed honor is given to individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to engineering mechanics and have shown exceptional leadership in the field, as highlighted in a press release by the Engineering Mechanics Institute.
Selvam, who has been a part of the University of Arkansas faculty since 1986, is recognized for his pioneering work in computational mechanics, wind engineering, and structural dynamics. His university profile underscores his reputation as a leading expert in these areas.
Expressing his gratitude, Selvam remarked on the significant honor of being named an EMI Fellow. He explained that the process involves rigorous nomination and selection, with nominees evaluated based on their substantial contributions to the advancement of engineering mechanics principles and their leadership within the engineering community.
Several key factors contributed to Selvam’s appointment as a Fellow. His four decades of work and research in engineering mechanics, especially his contributions to computational fluid dynamics for wind engineering, thermal management for electronics, and nanomechanics, played a crucial role.
In addition to being elected as a member of the EMI Board of Governors in 2019, Selvam has served as an associate editor for the Journal of Engineering Mechanics. His research has been widely published in prestigious journals, and he has been an active participant in numerous professional conferences and symposia.
Beyond his research, Selvam is committed to teaching and mentoring future engineers. He has supervised numerous graduate students, many of whom have pursued successful careers in academia, industry, and government. He advises aspiring civil engineers to engage with critical issues affecting humanity, such as the impacts of climate change on severe wind, air quality, and water quality, and how these factors influence daily life.