University Distinguished Professor honored with prestigious award

Kalpana Katti, University Distinguished Professor of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, has been named the recipient of the 2026 FMD Distinguished Scientist/Engineer Award. The honor was officially presented by The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society (TMS) during their annual conference held in San Diego, California.

The award, issued by the Functional Materials Division of TMS, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated world-class research excellence, significant technological impact and a sustained commitment to teaching and mentorship within the materials science community.

Professor Katti was specifically cited for her "exceptional contributions in Biomaterials in the Development of Engineered Nanoclays for Biomedical Applications." Her work at the intersection of nanotechnology and biology has paved the way for advanced medical solutions, pushing the boundaries of how synthetic materials interact with biological systems.

"I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this honor from TMS," said Katti. "TMS has always been a home for me for vivid scientific interactions with colleagues from around the world. The highly interactive opportunities at TMS conferences have fueled my research endeavors and helped build strong collaborations over the years."

Since joining NDSU in 1997 as a post-doctoral researcher, Katti has become a cornerstone of the university’s research and academic community. Her rapid ascent through the faculty ranks culminated in her being named a University Distinguished Professor in 2007.

Beyond her laboratory success, Katti is a celebrated educator and mentor. Her career is decorated with numerous accolades, reflecting a broad impact on both the engineering profession and the students she guides. Her previous honors include an NSF CAREER Award, the Peltier Award for Innovation, Fellow of the American Institute for Biological and Medical Engineering, Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the NDSU Faculty Lectureship.

TMS is a global professional association that connects scientists and engineers across industry, academia, and government to advance the field of materials science. By receiving this award, Professor Katti solidifies her status as a global leader in the development of materials that will define the next generation of biomedical technology.