Sustaining Earth’s Material Resources: New Paradigms and Opportunities
Speaker
Diran Apelian
Distinguished Professor of Material Science and Engineering, University of California, Irvine
About This Talk
The material-centric achievements and advances we have witnessed and experienced in the last five decades are remarkable. Yet with the growing sustainable development needs of the population of planet Earth, society is at a tipping point. One of the biggest challenges we face is sustaining the use of materials. Product design, material selection, manufacturing, and end-of-life circularity all need to be rethought. New paradigms need to be adopted—both technological and policy-driven.
In his presentation, Diran Apelian of the University of California, Irvine, will explore the societal context and responsibilities of stewardship for Earth’s material resources, featuring case studies highlighting the vast opportunities for materials scientists and engineers. It will also highlight lessons learned since Apelian graduated from DMSE five decades ago—echoing the spirit of the Wulff Lecture, which aims to inform, inspire, and motivate MIT undergraduates to pursue the study of materials science and engineering.
About the Speaker
Diran Apelian is widely recognized for his innovative work in metal processing and for his leadership as a researcher and educator. His research has helped establish key mechanisms and fundamentals in metal processing and laid the groundwork for significant industrial developments. More recently, his work on technologies for recovering and recycling materials has become critically important for a sustainable future. He is a member of the National Academy of Engineering, the European Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Inventors, and the Armenian Academy of Sciences. Apelian has received numerous honors and awards, published over 700 papers, and serves on several technical, corporate, and editorial boards. Before joining the University of California, Irvine, he was provost and faculty member at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. He earned his bachelor’s degree in metallurgical engineering from Drexel University in 1968 and his doctorate in materials science and engineering from MIT in 1972. In addition to his role as a distinguished professor, Apelian serves as chief strategy officer for the Samueli School of Engineering.
About the Wulff Lecture
The Wulff Lecture is an engaging and accessible presentation designed for a broad audience. Its purpose is to inform, inspire, and motivate MIT undergraduates to explore the study of materials science and engineering. The event extends an invitation to all MIT, with a special emphasis on welcoming first-year students. Learn more