Indian American scientist and technology leader Sethuraman Panchanathan has been selected to receive the 2026 Arthur M. Bueche Award from the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), becoming the first Indian American to receive the honor in its more than four-decade history.
Panchanathan is a University Professor of Technology and Innovation at Arizona State University (ASU) and previously served as director of the US National Science Foundation (NSF). The Bueche Award recognizes engineers whose work advances science and technology policy, technological development and collaboration among industry, government and academia.
The National Academies cited Panchanathan’s leadership in advancing fundamental science, technology and policy, along with his efforts to expand translational research and opportunities across the United States.
His interest in science and engineering began during childhood in Chennai. In 1969, he visited the American Center with his father to see rocks returned from the Apollo 11 mission. The experience sparked his fascination with the scientific and engineering achievements behind space exploration.
Panchanathan later built a career spanning research, innovation and technology policy. During his tenure as the 15th NSF director, he oversaw the agency during the COVID-19 pandemic and helped establish a new directorate focused on translating scientific and technological advances into economic, national security and societal benefits.
Before leading the NSF, he held several senior positions at ASU, including chief research and innovation officer and head of its Knowledge Enterprise. According to ASU, the university’s research volume tripled during his tenure in those roles.
Panchanathan has since returned to ASU, where his work includes artificial intelligence, quantum computing and the future of higher education. In April, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego appointed him to lead the city’s quantum strategy.
He was elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 2024 and became the first person from Arizona to receive the Bueche Award. University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella nominated him for the honor.
Panchanathan also received India’s Padma Shri in 2025 for his contributions. The Arthur M. Bueche Award will be presented in October at the NAE’s annual meeting in Washington, DC.
