Arvind Raman Takes Over At US Standards Agency NIST
Photo: NIST/Brandon Hayes
India-West News Desk
WASHINGTON, DC – Engineer and academic Arvind Raman has been sworn in as the 18th director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, assuming leadership of the federal agency responsible for advancing research and developing standards across a broad range of scientific and technological fields. Raman took the oath of office on June 30 after being confirmed by the US Senate on May 18. He also serves as undersecretary of commerce for standards and technology.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick welcomed Raman to the department, saying his experience conducting and leading innovative research would help strengthen American technology and manufacturing.
Raman said he was honored by the appointment and looked forward to expanding NIST’s work with industry, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders to accelerate American innovation.
Before joining NIST, Raman was the John A. Edwardson Dean of Engineering at Purdue University, where he was appointed in 2023 after more than two decades on the engineering faculty. He joined the university as an assistant professor in 2000, later became the Robert V. Adams Professor of Engineering, and received several teaching awards during his academic career.
His research has included atomic force microscopy, human biomechanics, and electronics manufacturing, and he collaborated with NIST researchers on nanotechnology early in his career.
As NIST director, Raman will lead the agency’s work with industry, academia, and government partners to develop technologies, measurements, and standards that support U.S. innovation. He will also oversee research and development efforts involving artificial intelligence, quantum technology, cybersecurity, semiconductors, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing.
Raman earned a bachelor of technology degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, and a doctorate in mechanical engineering from University of California, Berkeley.
