Indian-American engineer Sethuraman Panchanathan wins NAE's Arthur M. Bueche Award
Sethuraman Panchanathan, an Indian-origin scientist and former NSF director, has been honored with the 2026 Arthur M. Bueche Award by the National Academy of Engineering.
The National Academy of Engineering announced that Sethuraman Panchanathan will receive the 2026 Arthur M. Bueche Award for his contributions to science policy, technological development, and bridging academia, industry and government. Panchanathan, who grew up in Chennai and later became the 15th director of the National Science Foundation, guided the agency during the COVID-19 vaccine effort and launched a new directorate focused on translating research into societal impact.
At Arizona State University he has driven growth in research output and led initiatives in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and higher-education reform, including a city-wide quantum strategy appointed by Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. The honor, praised by ASU President Michael M. Crow and University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella, also makes him the first Indian American and the first Arizonan to earn the award.
Why it matters
The award highlights the impact of a leading engineer on U.S. science policy and showcases the growing influence of Indian-American innovators.
In this story
