As a testament to their groundbreaking contributions in cutting-edge fields, three faculty members from the College of Engineering at Texas A&M University are among eight faculty honored with the prestigious title of University Distinguished Professor.
The recipients from Texas A&M Engineering are Dr. Robert Ambrose, professor in the J. Mike Walker '66 Department of Mechanical Engineering; Dr. Mladen Kezunovic, professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering; and Dr. Frances Ligler, professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering.
The designation of University Distinguished Professor is reserved for individuals who stand at the forefront of their respective disciplines, having demonstrated exceptional expertise, made at least one transformational contribution, or provided an intellectually substantial "leap forward" in their discipline.
These distinguished professors have been lauded for their exceptional achievements in diverse realms, spanning the intricacies of space systems to the complexities of automated power systems and smart grids and delving into the realm of optical biosensors.
The appointment recognizes these scholars' profound impact through their pioneering research and innovative insights, enriching academic discourse and practical implications across various sectors. Their dedication to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and fostering transformative change underscores Texas A&M University's commitment to excellence in engineering education and research that impacts the state, nation and world.
Dr. Robert Ambrose
Dr. Robert Ambrose joined the faculty in 2021, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as a J. Mike Walker '66 Department of Mechanical Engineering professor. With a decades-long distinguished career, Ambrose previously served as the software, robotics and simulation division chief at NASA's Johnson Space Center.
A National Academy of Engineering member, Ambrose holds prestigious appointments as a recipient of the Governor's University Research Initiative grant program and The Texas A&M University System Chancellor's Research Initiative.
Ambrose's research focuses on robotic manipulation and mobility, particularly in space robotics. His vision for Texas A&M involves establishing it as a leading university for space robotics, capitalizing on the burgeoning opportunities in the field.
Ambrose is the director of Space and Robotics Initiatives for the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station and will lead the Space Strategic Technical Institute for In-Space Operations, a groundbreaking multi-university and industry initiative funded by the U.S. Space Force to advance technologies for in-space operations.
He is a founding member of the National Robotics Initiative and holds leadership positions in professional organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Robotics and Automation Society.
Dr. Mladen Kezunovic
Dr. Mladen Kezunovic, who joined the faculty in 1986, is a distinguished figure in electrical engineering. He is known as a pioneer in the automated analysis of power system faults and for his leadership in protective relaying education.
As a Regents Professor and the Eugene E. Webb Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Kezunovic's outstanding influence on engineering research and education earned him the prestigious honor of election to the National Academy of Engineering in 2022.
His extensive expertise encompasses protective relaying, automated power system disturbance analysis, computational intelligence, data analytics and smart grids.
Throughout his career, Kezunovic has amassed numerous accolades, including appointments by the U.S. Secretary of Energy to the Electricity Advisory Committee and distinctions as an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Life Fellow and a Council on Large Electric Systems Fellow.
His scholarly contributions include over 600 papers in journals and conferences, alongside more than 140 invited lectures worldwide. As the principal investigator on over 120 research projects and the mentor of more than 60 graduate students, his impact on engineering is significant and far-reaching.
Dr. Frances Ligler
Dr. Frances Ligler joined the faculty in 2022, bringing an extensive professional background, including 33 years of work in industrial and government research laboratories.
A pioneer in biosensors, Ligler has made significant contributions to various areas, including biosensors, microfluidics, tissue-on-chip systems, and regenerative medicine. Her groundbreaking research has led to 37 issued U.S. patents and the development of 11 commercially produced biosensor products.
In 2017, she was inducted into the U.S. National Inventors Hall of Fame for her invention of portable optical biosensors. Her work has profoundly impacted national security and public health, particularly during Operation Desert Storm, where her research played a crucial role in developing tactical sensors for detecting hazardous agents.
As an elected member and former councilor of the National Academy of Engineering, she actively contributes to shaping engineering policy and advising on matters of national importance.
She is also a passionate advocate for student mentorship, mentoring over 200 undergraduates in research experiences.
Ligler has received numerous accolades and honors, including the Simon Ramo Founders Award from the National Academy of Engineering.