Professor AbuBakr Bahaj, the head of the Energy and Climate Change Division and Chair of the Sustainability Implementation Group (SIG) at the University of Southampton has been elected as a Fellow of the esteemed Royal Academy of Engineering. This prestigious recognition was announced in the latest round of elections to the Fellowship.
The Royal Academy of Engineering serves as the UK’s national academy, offering forward-thinking leadership and uniting a distinguished fellowship of leaders from all engineering and technology sectors. Their patron is His Majesty, King Charles III.
Upon receiving the news of his Fellowship, Professor Bahaj expressed his appreciation: “Being elected as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering is a tremendous honour. This recognition reflects the dedication and innovative work of our team in energy research, along with the valued contributions of colleagues and collaborators. I am also deeply grateful to my Fellowship proposers and I look forward supporting the Academy’s mission to drive engineering excellence and address the pressing challenges of sustainability and climate change.”
Professor Bahaj completed his PhD, progressing from a researcher to a Personal Chair in Sustainable Energy, and for more than 30 years, has pioneered sustainable energy research and established the energy theme within the University. His work has resulted in over 350 articles (with h-index of 59), published in academic refereed journals and conference series of international standing. His current research include Renewable Energy, Energy Access, Cities & Infrastructure, Buildings & Communities, and Behaviour & Modelling. He also leads the University of Southampton’s Sustainable Strategy Implementation Group having the responsibility for implementing and delivering the University Sustainability Strategy.
Professor Bahaj will be formally introduced to the Academy and admitted into the Fellowship on 27 November 2024. During this event, a formal dinner will be held, and all new Fellows will receive their Fellowship scrolls.