Iowa State Inventors Recognized by NAI for Tackling World Issues

Iowa State University continues to lead in groundbreaking research as Matthew Darr and Eric Cochran join the prestigious National Academy of Inventors 2024 Class of Fellows. With a combined 141 patents, their election highlights ISU's commitment to innovation that addresses real-world challenges.

Darr's work in agricultural technology, including smart sensors and machinery electronics, has found applications in approximately 60 products globally. Cochran's 53 patents and the creation of SoyLei Innovations demonstrate the real-world impact of ISU's research in chemical engineering.

They join an impressive list of NAI fellows from our institution, including Eric Cochran, Balaji Narasimhan, and Surya Mallapragada. Narasimhan, director of the Nanovaccine Institute, is revolutionizing disease prevention with his work on nanoparticle-based vaccines and needle-free delivery systems. Mallapragada's research on polymers for vaccine delivery and virus-mimicking systems is pushing the boundaries of biomedical engineering and nanomedicine.

These achievements underscore ISU's culture of innovation, where collaborative research translates into practical solutions. From smart agriculture to nanomedicine, our researchers are shaping the future across diverse fields, embodying ISU's motto of "Science with Practice."

The recognition of our faculty by the NAI reflects the university's commitment to fostering an environment where innovation thrives. It's a testament to the cutting-edge research happening across our campus every day, tackling global challenges and creating solutions that propel us into the future.

Discover more about ISU's innovative spirit and its global impact here.

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NSF LogoThis material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Award No.2242763