Sirignano Honored for Pioneering Research
Feb. 21, 2023 - The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics has elected William Sirignano an honorary fellow, one of three to be named this year. A UCI Distinguished Professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering, Sirignano is being recognized for “pioneering research in combustion dynamics, atomization and spray, and innovative concepts for propulsion and power, outstanding educational leadership, and professional service."
A UCI faculty member since 1985, Sirignano leads a research team in combustion, fluid dynamics and propulsion, and teaches combustion, propulsion, fluid dynamics and applied mathematics. His many notable research accomplishments include the Sirignano-Abramzon model for droplet vaporization, which is still widely used as are two of the three books he has authored on these subjects. Sirignano is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and a fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, American Association for the Advancement of Science, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics, American Physical Society and the Combustion Institute.
According to the AIAA, the honorary fellow is the highest distinction it confers, recognizing preeminent individuals who have had long and highly contributory careers in aerospace and who embody the highest possible standards in aeronautics and astronautics. There have been only 235 distinguished persons elected since the inception of this honor and the first was Orville Wright named in 1933.
“Although I have been blessed with many research awards and other professional recognition, it is especially awesome to be connected to this pioneering group of honorary fellows,” said Sirignano. “Any recognition of impact must be shared with many former graduate students, postdoctoral researchers and senior collaborators.”
Sirignano will be inducted May 17 in Arlington, Virginia, and celebrated May 18 at the AIAA Awards Gala at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
– Lori Brandt
