University of Houston professor elected to National Academy of Engineering

Venkat Selvamanickam recognized for transformative breakthroughs in superconductivity

2026-02-11

(Press-News.org) University of Houston engineering professor Venkat Selvamanickam has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering, one of the highest professional honors awarded to engineers worldwide.

Selvamanickam is the M.D. Anderson Chair Professor of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering and director of the Advanced Manufacturing Institute at the UH Cullen College of Engineering. He was recognized for his cutting-edge contributions to industrial-scale advanced manufacturing processes for high-temperature superconductor wires for electric power applications and their commercialization.

“I am deeply honored by this recognition from the National Academy of Engineering,” Selvamanickam said. “I am grateful to my students, fellow researchers and industry partners who work alongside me to advance superconductor technologies. Together, we’re moving innovations from the lab into real-world systems that strengthen energy infrastructure and open the door to new applications.”

A globally recognized innovator in superconductivity, Selvamanickam, who earned his M.S. and Ph.D. in engineering at UH, has spent decades developing and commercializing high-temperature superconducting technologies that have transformed the energy industry. His work has helped modernize electric grids, strengthen energy resilience and accelerate the development of next-generation energy systems.

At UH, Selvamanickam has built one of the nation’s premier academic programs in advanced superconducting manufacturing, securing major federal and industry partnerships to accelerate domestic production of next-generation superconductors and strengthen U.S. competitiveness in critical energy technologies. Last fall, he was awarded $8 million in federal funding to advance superconducting magnet research for compact fusion reactors — work aimed at keeping the nation at the forefront of fusion innovation.

“Year after year, Professor Selvamanickam pushes the boundaries of engineering, producing breakthrough innovations to drive society forward,” said UH President Renu Khator. “From medical treatments to motors, his 40-year career advancing superconductor technology has significantly impacted quality of life and economic development. He personifies UH’s mission to transform lives and communities and is richly deserving of this honor.”

Selvamanickam is among 130 U.S. members and 28 international members in the NAE’s Class of 2026. He is the 29th NAE member from UH.

“Professor Selvamanickam’s election to the National Academy of Engineering shines a global spotlight on the groundbreaking work taking place in his lab and across the University of Houston,” said Diane Z. Chase, UH senior vice president for academic affairs and provost. “Our students are learning and working alongside a true pioneer whose work is shaping the future of engineering, an experience that strengthens their education and reinforces UH’s reputation as a place where breakthrough ideas and student success go hand in hand.”

Election to the NAE honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to engineering research, practice or education, including significant advances in new and developing fields of technology. Academy membership represents the pinnacle of professional achievement in engineering.

“This is a proud and defining moment for the University of Houston as it is powerful validation of the transformative work happening in our classrooms and labs every day,” said Claudia Neuhauser, vice president for research at UH. “Selva’s research not only advances his field, it elevates UH’s standing as a leader in engineering innovation and reinforces the real-world impact our faculty and students are making on the technologies that shape our future.”

Selvamanickam and the other members of the class will be formally inducted during the NAE Annual Meeting in the fall.

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