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Navin Manjooran

Navin Manjooran

Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering, 2007

Induction year: 2025

“My journey into materials science and engineering, particularly nanotechnology, has been shaped by a combination of family influence, personal passion, and a commitment to innovation and leadership,” Navin Manjooran said. A full scholarship brought him to Virginia Tech to pursue a doctorate in materials science and engineering with a focus on nanotechnology. “The sense of family and a culture of collaboration, combined with a strong emphasis on excellence, were key factors that drew me to Virginia Tech.”

His ongoing commitment to global leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence continues to guide him in his role as chairman of Solve, a global technology and research services company focused on critical challenges in energy, industry, medicine, and infrastructure. Throughout his career, Manjooran has remained dedicated to mentoring emerging professionals and driving inclusive innovation across sectors. His time at Virginia Tech, he says, laid the foundation for a lifelong pursuit of impact through science, leadership, and service.

 

Professional roles:

  • Chairman, Solve, 2020-present 
  • President and CEO, Solve 
  • Global Leadership, Siemens 
  • Professor Adjunct (MSE), Virginia Tech, 2010-present 
  • Research & Management, Siemens 

Boards and committees:

  • President and Chair of the Board of Trustees, ASM International
  • Senior Vice President, ASM International
  • Vice President, ASM International
  • Board Trustee, ASM International
  • Board Member, US Technology Advisory Group
  • Board Member, Keiser University (CSE)
  • Board Member, Board of Trustees, University of Chicago
  • Board Member, Energy Initiative Board, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  •  Chair, Advisory Board, MSE, COE, University of Florida
  • Board of Visitors, Virginia Tech

Awards and honors:

  • Fellow, ASM International
  • Fellow, American Ceramic Society
  • Fellow, Institute of Engineers (I)
  • Fellow, Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining
  • Fellow, Indian Institute of Metals
  • Fellow, Alpha Sigma Mu
  • Fellow, Indian Institute of Engineers
  • Outstanding Indian American Award, Indian American Organization
  • Distinguished Alumnus Award (ISA), Virginia Tech
  • Outstanding Alumni Award (MSE), University of Florida
  • Chartered Engineer, Indian Institute of Engineers
  • 12 Patents/ Disclosures
  • 12 Books

Why did you decide to come to Virginia Tech?

Virginia Tech is a top global university with a strong reputation for excellence in my field. Receiving a full scholarship that covered my entire tuition and living expenses made this opportunity even more valuable, allowing me to focus on my academic and research pursuits. The chance to work with world renowned faculty including Professor Pickrell, Professor Corcoran, Professor Reynolds and Professor Clark, whose expertise aligns closely with my interests, meant that I could learn from and collaborate with distinguished leaders in the field in a dynamic research environment. Virginia Tech was the ideal choice for me.

Who influenced you during your career and/or time at Virginia Tech?

  • Prof. Gary Pickrell 
  • President Charles Steger 
  • V.P. for Development Betsy Flanagan 
  • V.P. for Student Affairs Ed Spencer 
  • Dean of Graduate School Karen DePauw 
  • Prof. Bill Reynolds 
  • Prof. Sean Corcoran 
  • Prof. David Clark

What led you to your chosen profession?

My journey into materials science and engineering has been shaped by a combination of family influence, personal passion, and a commitment to innovation and leadership.

Growing up in a family involved in the gold and diamond business, as well as real estate and healthcare, I was naturally exposed to a variety of materials from an early age. Observing the unique properties and applications of gold and diamonds sparked my curiosity about how materials behave at a fundamental level and how they can be engineered for advanced uses, including in construction and medical technologies. This early exposure laid the foundation for my deep interest in materials science and nanotechnology.

What began as curiosity quickly grew into a passion for discovery and problem-solving. I was particularly fascinated by how materials and technology can be harnessed to drive innovation across industries. As I advanced in my studies, I became increasingly drawn to the intersection of materials science and nanotechnology, where even the smallest modifications at the atomic or molecular scale can lead to transformative breakthroughs.

My academic and professional experiences have further reinforced this passion. Leading research teams, collaborating on interdisciplinary projects, and mentoring emerging talent have deepened my commitment to both technical excellence and leadership in the field.

This blend of early exposure, sustained curiosity, and dedication to leadership has not only defined my professional path but continues to inspire my vision for the future of materials science and its global impact.

What was the moment in your career that you felt like you made it – that you were really proud of yourself for what you had accomplished?

A defining milestone in my career has been recognized as a Fellow of seven global professional, technical, and leadership societies, an honor that reflects the breadth and impact of my contributions to the field. This recognition not only affirmed the value of my work on a global scale but also underscored years of dedication to advancing materials science, technology, and engineering through innovation and leadership.

Equally formative has been the privilege of studying at some of the world’s leading universities. These academic experiences provided a rigorous foundation and exposed me to cutting-edge research, global perspectives, and a culture of continuous learning that has shaped my approach to both science and leadership.

My professional journey has been enriched by leadership roles across academia, industry, and professional organizations. These experiences have enabled me to influence the direction of the field, mentor the next generation of scientists and engineers, and foster strategic collaborations that drive progress at the intersection of science and application.

Looking back, I am proud of the path I have taken— and looking forward, I remain deeply committed to championing innovation, inclusion, and global leadership in materials science and engineering.

Please note: Inductee spotlight is as of the year of their induction.