IChemE welcomes international innovator as new president

Dr. R. A. Mashelkar takes the helm in the Institution of Chemical Engineers’ Jubilee year

Dr Raghunath Anant Mashelkar, one of the world’s most respected engineers and scientists, has become the 66th President of the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE).

Mashelkar, previously Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research in India (CSIR), succeeds Greg Lewin, President of Shell Global Solutions International, who has served as IChemE president over the past year.

Mashelkar’s appointment coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Institution’s Royal Charter and the publication of IChemE’s Jubilee Report, which will raise the profile of chemical engineering and its contribution to society. Mashelkar will use his inaugural address at IChemE’s Global Forum to examine how chemical engineers’ work can help to address the problems faced by the global community at large.

During his eleven-year tenure at CSIR, the world’s largest chain of national laboratories engaged in industrial R&D, Mashelkar transformed the organisation by focusing closely on developing innovative technologies. In post-liberalised India, he has been a dominant force in shaping the direction of science and technology in India.

Mashelkar is the recipient of a multitude of accolades, including three lifetime achievement awards for his outstanding contribution to chemical engineering. He holds honorary doctorates from 20 universities across the world.

“Over the next decade, chemical engineers’ work will be crucial as we tackle global issues such as climate change, waste reduction and access to clean water. Our president not only needs to lead an international chemical engineering community but also promote the positive work done by the profession to a worldwide audience.” said David Brown, chief executive, IChemE. “I know of no one better to fill that role than Dr. Mashelkar.”

“The Jubilee year celebrations should be a time to reflect on the excellent achievements made in our industry. But it must also be a time to look forward,” said Dr Mashelkar. “Chemical engineers can help solve some pressing challenges faced by mankind. I look forward to leading an organisation that will inspire and support the global chemical engineering community in its drive towards a sustainable future.”

View the presidential address

Notes to Editors