Professor Marian Wiercigroch FRSE, Sixth Century Chair in Applied Dynamics and Director of the University's Centre for Applied Dynamics Research (CADR), has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.
Internationally renowned for his seminal work in engineering vibration and dynamics of nonlinear mechanical systems and structures, Professor Wiercigroch has been at the forefront of the integration of experimental and modelling techniques in engineering dynamics, leading to accurate models for vibro-impacts, manufacturing, green energy extraction and downhole drilling. During his time at the University of Aberdeen, he has created unique experimental facilities to support development of new engineering solutions. His invention, resonance enhanced drilling, is a breakthrough and gamechanger, offering multi-billion-pound annual savings for the energy industry.
The new Fellows are drawn from every specialism from within the engineering and technology professions and cover sectors ranging from energy and defence to new materials. They have made exceptional contributions to their field: pioneering new innovations within academia and business, providing expert advice to government and fostering a wider comprehension of engineering and technology.
Professor Wiercigroch said: “It is a great honour to be elected to the Fellowship and I would like to thank the Academy for this recognition. However, this would not be possible without support of my friends and colleagues, in particular, those from the CADR of the School of Engineering, over many years. I am deeply grateful and delighted to join the Academy’s Fellowship alongside so many outstanding peers and I look forward to contributing to its mission to engineer better future.”
University of Aberdeen Pro-Chancellor, Professor Sir Iain Torrance FRSE, commented: "We are immensely proud that Professor Marian Wiercigroch FRSE has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering. His dedication to research, innovation, and leadership exemplifies the values of our institution. This recognition is not just personal but reflects the strengths of our engineering community and our commitment to advancing excellence in engineering for the benefit of society.”
Professor Ekaterina Pavlovskaia, Head of the School of Engineering, added: “The University of Aberdeen School of Engineering is delighted with Professor’s Wiercigroch’s election to the Fellowship. It is a testament to the expertise, world-class research and innovation that exists across the School.”
Sir John Lazar CBE FREng, President of the Royal Academy of Engineering, said: “As we approach our 50th anniversary next year it’s a good time to reflect on how much we have achieved. The Academy is built on the foundation of our Fellowship, and that remains as true today as half a century ago. Our story began as a ‘Fellowship of Engineering’ of 130 Fellows including such pioneers as Air Commodore Sir Frank Whittle, Lord Hinton of Bankside and Sir Ove Arup, driven by the support of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
“Today’s cohort join a community of around 1,700 of some of the most talented engineers and innovators in the UK and around the globe. Their knowledge and experience make them uniquely well placed to tackle the biggest challenges facing the world, and our determination to advance and promote excellence in engineering remains undimmed.”