University of Houston professors join National Academy of Inventors as senior members

University of Houston professors Birol Dindoruk, Megan Robertson, and Francisco Robles Hernandez have been recognized as Senior Members of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI). This achievement brings the total number of NAI-affiliated faculty at the University to 39.

Ramanan Krishnamoorti, vice president for energy and innovation at UH, stated, “We congratulate these three esteemed colleagues on being named NAI Senior Members. This recognition is a testament to their dedication, research excellence and pursuit of real-world impact by knowledge and technologies. Their achievements continue to elevate the University as a leader in innovation and entrepreneurship.”

NAI Senior Members are distinguished faculty, scientists, and administrators from member institutions who have shown significant innovation through technologies that aim to positively impact society. They are also recognized for their contributions in patents, licensing, commercialization, education, and mentorship.

Megan Robertson is developing new polymers with strategies for recycling plastics. She holds three patents with two more applications pending. Robertson expressed gratitude towards her department: “I’m very grateful for the support of the University of Houston, Cullen College and my department – without it, this recognition wouldn’t have been possible.”

Francisco Robles Hernandez focuses on carbon materials such as graphene used in automotive applications. He holds four patents with others under review. Robles Hernandez remarked on his award: “As an inventor, this is one of the highest honors you can be awarded.”

Birol Dindoruk specializes in fluid-rock interactions related to energy sustainability. He holds three patents with numerous ideas shared publicly. Dindoruk commented on his accolade: “Being named a Senior Member is both an honor and a responsibility.”

The selection process involves evaluation by the NAI Senior Member Advisory Committee composed of elected NAI Fellows known for pioneering work in their fields. The current class includes 162 inventors from 64 institutions nationwide holding over 1,200 U.S. patents collectively.

Paul R. Sanberg, president of NAI said: “To see this program grow year over year is a testament to the dedication our member institutions have to fostering innovation on their campuses.” The new members will be honored at NAI’s Annual Conference in Atlanta.