University of Houston’s Ganesh Thakur becomes first UH faculty member to head TAMEST, aims to spotlight science and innovation across Texas
Indian-origin professor Ganesh Thakur has been appointed president of the Texas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science and Technology (TAMEST), marking a historic first for the University of Houston (UH). A distinguished professor of petroleum engineering at UH’s Cullen College of Engineering, Thakur began his three-year term in February 2025, reported business-standard.com.
Thakur is set to amplify UH’s research presence and foster collaboration across Texas’ leading academic institutions.
TAMEST is a prestigious academy that brings together the brightest scientific minds from across the state, including members from UH, UT Austin, Texas A&M, and other top-tier institutions.
With over 350 members from the US National Academies and eight Nobel laureates, TAMEST serves as a collaborative force to address major scientific and societal challenges.
In his new role, Thakur is expected to play a pivotal part in shaping the academy’s agenda. The next TAMEST annual conference, focusing on climate change, is scheduled for February 2026 in San Antonio. Thakur has expressed his intention to use the platform to enhance Texas’ impact on global science, while promoting Houston as a national hub for innovation and research excellence.
Thakur’s appointment marks a milestone for UH and underscores the growing global influence of Indian-origin scientists in American academia.
Cullen College Dean Pradeep Sharma praised Thakur’s leadership, saying it will bring “well-deserved attention” to the university’s faculty and research programs. Thakur’s presidency runs through 2027, during which he plans to deepen inter-university collaboration and reinforce TAMEST’s role in driving breakthroughs across disciplines.
