Grossmann Elected To Royal Academy of Engineering
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Carnegie Mellon University's Ignacio Grossmann, the R. R. Dean University Professor of Chemical Engineering, has been elected to the Royal Academy of Engineering(opens in new window) in the U.K. This honor recognizes his world-leading expertise in process systems engineering and mathematical optimization.
Leading the way in computation
A pioneer in discrete and continuous optimization, Grossmann developed core mathematical models and algorithms that solve complex operational and design problems in fields ranging from energy and logistics to IT and process systems. He played a central role in bringing these computational techniques into commercial practice via software, teaching and extensive international collaborations.
"Ignacio's many contributions have shaped the past, present and future of chemical engineering, and process systems engineering in particular," said Carl Laird, Department head and professor of Chemical Engineering. "He has trained generations of academics and engineers who are themselves leaders in their fields. That legacy further multiplies his profound impact."
Educating generations of engineers and scholars
A dedicated educator and mentor, Grossmann has graduated 68 doctoral and 34 master's students over more than three decades at Carnegie Mellon. He has influenced countless others, including those around the world who have attended his short courses. He has authored two academic textbooks.
An advocate for international collaboration, he co-founded a study abroad partnership with the University of Aachen in Germany which recently celebrated its 30th anniversary.
Throughout his career, Grossmann has authored more than 700 scientific papers which have received more than 80,000 citations. A paper recently published in the journal IEEE Transactions on Power Systems found that the type of math used by grid planners to prepare for emergencies drastically changes the cost of electricity and the reliability of the grid.
Other recent research has investigated optimal design of oil and gas pipelines, evaluated supply chain resiliency using graph neural networks, and optimized cable routing for wind farms.
A homecoming
The election to the Academy is especially meaningful given that Grossmann earned both his master's and doctoral degrees at Imperial College in London. Receiving top national recognition from the very country that shaped his early academic career makes the honor all the more profound.
Did you know?
Professor Grossmann has honorary doctorates from nine universities — in Argentina, Finland, Germany, Russia, Slovenia and Spain.
"I am incredibly humbled and grateful to be elected to the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering," said Grossmann. "I'm joining a community of engineering and technology experts who come together with a shared vision for an innovative future that benefits society."
On Oct. 19, he will join 74 other new Fellows for a special ceremony where each will sign the roll book. As Fellows, they will lend their expertise to help the Academy achieve its overarching goal to engineer better lives for all.
A member and former director of Carnegie Mellon's Center for Advanced Process Decision-making, Grossmann also holds membership in the National Academy of Engineering in the U.S., the Mexican Academy of Engineering, and as a Foreign Academic of the Chemical and Physical Sciences Section, Royal Academy of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences of Spain.
