Mahesh Krishnamurthy Appointed Inaugural Vin and Caren Prothro Department Chair of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Co-Executive Director of the Hart Institute for Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship

SMU Lyle School of Engineering is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Mahesh Krishnamurthy as the inaugural Vin and Caren Prothro Department Chair of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Co-Executive Director of the Hart Institute for Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at SMU Lyle.

Dr. Krishnamurthy joins us from the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, where he was the Carl and Paul Bodine Endowed Professor of Electrical Engineering and the Academic Director of the Kaplan Institute for Innovation and Tech Entrepreneurship. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role, with a distinguished career dedicated to developing innovative technologies to improve quality of life and advance engineering.

A recognized leader in power electronics, batteries, and motor drives for transportation electrification and renewable energy systems, Dr. Krishnamurthy's research focuses on designing and optimizing energy conversion systems for automotive propulsion and renewable energy applications. His work combines independent research with collaborative team efforts, leading to significant advancements in electric machine design, multi-physics analysis, and fault-tolerant systems.

In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Krishnamurthy has served as an expert with the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) since 2021, where he manages proposals submitted in the areas of power electronics, motors, batteries, and energy harvesting. His experience with the NSF highlights his deep understanding of the field and his commitment to advancing research and innovation.

As department chair, Dr. Krishnamurthy will lead efforts to expand the department’s research capabilities and educational programs, fostering an environment of innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and hands-on learning. His vision aligns perfectly with SMU Lyle’s mission to develop an entrepreneurial mindset among students and prepare them to tackle real-world challenges.

As Co-Executive Director of the Hart Institute for Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Dr. Krishnamurthy will help shape the institute’s direction and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. His leadership will create opportunities for students to collaborate across disciplines, engage in industry-driven projects, and develop the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Dr. Krishnamurthy has a strong track record of securing research funding, publishing impactful research, and mentoring the next generation of engineers. His leadership will be instrumental in driving the department’s growth and enhancing its reputation as a leader in electrical and computer engineering.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Mahesh Krishnamurthy on his new role as the inaugural Vin and Caren Prothro Department Chair and Co-Executive Director of the Hart Institute for Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. We look forward to the exciting contributions he will bring to our academic community and the field of electrical and computer engineering.

About the Bobby Lyle School of Engineering
SMU's Lyle School of Engineering thrives on innovation that transcends traditional boundaries. We strongly believe in the power of externally funded, industry-supported research to drive progress and provide exceptional students with valuable industry insights. Our mission is to lead the way in digital transformation within engineering education, all while ensuring that every student graduates as a confident leader. Founded in 1925, SMU Lyle is one of the oldest engineering schools in the Southwest, offering undergraduate and graduate programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees.

About SMU
SMU is the nationally ranked global research university in the dynamic city of Dallas. SMU’s alumni, faculty and nearly 12,000 students in eight degree-granting schools demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit as they lead change in their professions, community and the world.