Dr Raj Singh, Indian American Regents Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at Oklahoma State University has received the university's highest honor -- The Eminent Faculty Award.
The award honors a faculty member who has made sustained contributions to scholarly creative activity, instruction and service, bringing honor and recognition to the university. It includes a $10,000 stipend.
Besides Raj Singh, three other Indian Americans were among the faculty, staff, and administrators recognized in 22 different categories at the 2024 University Awards Convocation on Dec 13 at the Student Union Ballroom.
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"This annual celebration recognizes and commemorates the outstanding achievements of so many OSU faculty and staff," said Provost Jeanette Mendez "And while this ceremony is something we do every year, I continue to be amazed at the dedication and innovative spirit of the OSU family."
A distinguished figure in the field of materials science and engineering, Raj Singh has been instrumental in advancing research on fuel cells, batteries, and advanced nanomaterials.
Singh's contributions have led to products such as ceramic matrix composites for aircraft engines and advanced energy storage solutions. His work has garnered accolades, including his induction as a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors in 2015.
Singh holds an ScD in Ceramics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, Massachusetts; an MS in Physical Metallurgy from the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; and a BS in Metallurgical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, India.
Babu Fathepure, professor of microbiology and molecular genetics, was honored with the Regents Distinguished Teaching Award for his contributions to student mentorship and research.
Fathepure has published extensively, mentored numerous graduate students, and served on national review panels, including those for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Science Foundation (NSF).
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He holds a PhD in Environmental Microbiology from the Indian Institute of Science and postdoctoral experience at Michigan State University and the University of Michigan.
Ramanjulu Sunkar, a professor in biochemistry and molecular biology, was appointed Regents Professor while Natarajan Aravindan, a professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine, was recognized for his contributions to cancer research and molecular oncology.