Suresh Garimella, president of the University of Arizona, has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering—one of the most prestigious honors in the field. The academy recently announced its 2025 class, naming 128 new U.S. members and 22 international members.
Garimella was recognized for his work in microscale heat and mass transport, as well as his leadership in academia and national service. This honor places him among an elite group of engineers whose innovations have made significant contributions to research, industry, and society. Members are selected by their peers for their groundbreaking advancements and leadership in major engineering initiatives.
Expressing his gratitude, Garimella said, “I am deeply honored to be elected to the National Academy of Engineering. My students, collaborators, and institutions have played an essential role in this recognition, and I am thankful for their support.” He also emphasized his commitment to serving institutions such as Purdue, Vermont, and now the University of Arizona, where he became the 23rd president in October 2024.
In addition to his role as president, Garimella is a University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering. Before joining Arizona, he was president of the University of Vermont, where he led efforts to expand research funding and improve accessibility. Prior to that, he was the Goodson Distinguished Professor of Mechanical Engineering and executive vice president for research at Purdue University.
An expert in energy and thermal transport, Garimella has published over 625 research papers and holds 16 patents. He has mentored more than 200 students and postdoctoral scholars, many of whom have gone on to prestigious academic and research positions. He is also a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
David W. Hahn, dean of the College of Engineering, praised Garimella’s accomplishments, stating, “His work exemplifies ingenuity, service, and a commitment to advancing the human condition.”
Garimella and the rest of the 2025 class will be formally inducted into the academy at its annual meeting on October 5.
