Donghai Wang named chair of SMU Lyle’s Department of Mechanical Engineering
Accomplished energy-storage researcher and William T. Solomon Chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering will lead the department’s next chapter.
SMU Lyle School of Engineering has named Donghai Wang the William T. Solomon Chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Wang joined SMU Lyle in 2024 and is a professor of mechanical engineering with a courtesy appointment as professor of civil and environmental engineering. An internationally recognized researcher in advanced energy-storage technologies, he brings extensive experience in interdisciplinary research and graduate mentorship to his new leadership role.
“Dr. Wang brings an exceptional record of research, mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration to this role,” said Dinesh Rajan, Mary and Richard Templeton Dean, ad interim, of SMU Lyle. “His experience and leadership will be valuable as we continue to strengthen our academic programs, expand research opportunities and prepare the next generation of engineers. I look forward to working with him to continue to build on the department's momentum in advances in research and academic excellence.”
Wang’s research focuses on nanostructured materials and advanced energy-storage technologies, including next-generation lithium-ion, lithium-metal, lithium-sulfur batteries and solid-state batteries. His work explores ways to improve battery performance, safety and sustainability, with potential applications in electrification of transportation and renewable energy systems.
His research has appeared in leading scientific journals, including Nature Energy, Nature Materials and Nature Sustainability. Recent studies include work on longer-lasting lithium-metal batteries and high-energy lithium-sulfur batteries.
Throughout his academic career, Wang has led more than $25 million in research grants as principal investigator, published approximately 130 peer-reviewed articles and mentored more than 60 doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers.
Before joining SMU, Wang spent 15 years at Pennsylvania State University, where he became a full professor in 2018. He was recognized as a Highly Cited Researcher from 2018 through 2023.
“I am honored to take on this role and continue the excellent work underway in our department,” Wang said. “We have an outstanding community of faculty, students and staff, and I look forward to building on our strengths in education and research, fostering collaboration and expanding opportunities to make a meaningful impact.”
As chair, Wang will lead the department’s academic and research efforts, supporting faculty and student success while strengthening opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
Explore the SMU Lyle Department of Mechanical Engineering to learn more about its academic programs, faculty and research.
About the Bobby B. 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 teaching and research university in the dynamic city of Dallas, and a member of the prestigious Atlantic Coast Conference. SMU’s alumni, faculty and more than 12,000 students in eight degree-granting schools demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit as they lead change in their professions, communities and the world.