Meet Indian-origin scientist Sethuraman Panchanathan, the first Indian American named for the National Academy of Engineering’s Arthur M. Bueche Award
In 1969, eight-year-old Sethuraman Panchanathan stood in a queue outside the American Center in Chennai with his father and hundreds of others. They had come to see rocks brought back from the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission. The rocks themselves did not impress him as much as the science and engineering that had made their journey possible.“The rocks were just rocks,” Panchanathan recalled as quoted by Arizona State University news. “But what fascinated me was all the human ingenuity and scientific prowess that went into bringing them here.”That experience became an early influence on Panchanathan, who went on to build a career in engineering, science and technology policy. He is now a University Professor of Technology and Innovation at Arizona State University (ASU) and the former director of the US National Science Foundation (NSF).The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) has now named Panchanathan the recipient of the 2026 Arthur M. Bueche Award. The award recognises an engineer involved in US science and technology policy, technological development and strengthening links between industry, government and universities.
What the Bueche Award recognises
The National Academies said Panchanathan was honoured “for leadership in promoting fundamental science, technology and policy that advances translational research and expands opportunities nationwide.”The award also recognises work that connects scientific research with practical use. Translational research refers to the process of moving scientific knowledge and discoveries towards applications that can have an impact beyond the laboratory.ASU President Michael M. Crow described Panchanathan as “one of the most remarkable systems thinkers we have in this country”.“This award is a national recognition of what we have known here at ASU for some time, which is that when big problems need to be solved, Panch needs to be in the room,” Crow said.Panchanathan said he was honoured by the recognition but also stressed that the award was not only about him.“I’m honoured and humbled by this recognition,” Panchanathan said. “Awards like this are never only about the individual. They are about the scores of people that have contributed to the outcomes recognized. I owe my inspiration to my family, teachers and mentors, and to the many students and colleagues I have been fortunate enough to collaborate with throughout my career.”
His work at the National Science Foundation
Panchanathan served as the 15th director of the National Science Foundation. His tenure included the COVID-19 pandemic and the race to develop a vaccine.During his time at the NSF, a new directorate was created for the first time in more than 30 years. The directorate focuses on accelerating the translation of science and technology for economic progress, national security and societal impact in local and regional hubs across the US.Before joining the NSF, Panchanathan had held senior research and innovation roles at Arizona State University. He led the university’s Knowledge Enterprise and served as its chief research and innovation officer.According to ASU, research volume at the university tripled during his time in that role. The university was also named the most innovative university in the US by U.S. News and World Report.
His work in AI and quantum computing
Panchanathan has since returned to Arizona State University, where his current work includes artificial intelligence, quantum computing and the future of higher education.In April, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego appointed him to lead the city’s quantum strategy. He is also working on a vision for higher education in an age of artificial intelligence.His approach includes focusing on students’ mindsets and building closer partnerships between universities and industries working in high-tech fields.
A first for an Indian American
Panchanathan was elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 2024. The NAE is considered one of the highest honours for an American engineer.He is the first Indian American to receive the Arthur M. Bueche Award in its more than 40-year history. He is also the first person from Arizona to receive the award.The University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella nominated Panchanathan for the honour. The two universities are athletic rivals but also collaborate in higher education in Arizona.“I am delighted to congratulate my friend and colleague Sethuraman Panchanathan on this well-deserved recognition from the National Academy of Engineering,” Garimella said.“I have had the privilege of witnessing Panch’s combination of scientific vision and genuine commitment to expanding opportunity over many years and across many roles. Few people I know have translated those qualities into more lasting impact for our nation and the world.”Panchanathan has also received recognition in India. In 2025, he was awarded the Padma Shri. He was also included in lists recognising Indian American contributions to the US and the US-India relationship.The Arthur M. Bueche Award will be presented to Panchanathan in October at the National Academy of Engineering’s annual meeting in Washington, DC.
