St. Paul, MN (February 11, 2025) – The Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering (BBE) at the University of Minnesota proudly announces that Professor Roger Ruan, PhD, has been elected to the prestigious National Academy of Engineering (NAE). The NAE’s election of Dr. Ruan recognizes his outstanding contributions to the sustainable development of the circular economy within food and agricultural systems.
Dr. Ruan is widely recognized for his research in biomass and solid waste conversion, including plastic waste pyrolysis and gasification for the production of chemicals, materials, fuels, and energy. His work extends to innovative wastewater treatment solutions, airborne pathogen disinfection, catalytic non-thermal plasma, microwave and photocatalytic technologies, and food engineering advancements. His research has resulted in significant contributions to engineering knowledge, with over 43,000 citations, an h-index of 106, and an i10-index of 531. Dr. Ruan is also a Fellow of National Academy of Inventors (Class of 2023), and a Fellow of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) and the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT).
The NAE announced its 2025 class on February 11, electing 128 new members and 22 international members. This brings the total U.S. membership to 2,487 and the number of international members to 336. Election to the NAE is one of the highest professional distinctions accorded to engineers, honoring individuals who have made outstanding contributions to engineering practice, research, education, and leadership.
"Professor Ruan is a highly accomplished scholar, entrepreneur, and disciplined leader who makes our world a more sustainable place,” said Dr. Hua Zhao, Department Head of BBE. “His election into NAE and earlier induction to the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) are strong testaments to his accomplishments."
Newly elected members will be formally inducted during the NAE’s Annual Meeting on October 5, 2025. For more information on the National Academy of Engineering and the full list of newly elected members, visit www.nae.edu.