Kaushik Rajashekara Honored with International Fellowship by the Engineering Academy of Japan

Kaushik Rajashekara, a distinguished professor at the University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering, has been elected as an International Fellow of the prestigious Engineering Academy of Japan. This honour recognizes his outstanding contributions to the field of power conversion and the electrification of transportation.

A Journey from a Small Village to Global Recognition

Originally hailing from a small village in Karnataka, India, Professor Rajashekara’s remarkable journey has been marked by numerous achievements and accolades. His election as an International Fellow specifically honours his “outstanding scientific research and scientific-technical developments in the field of energy,” which promote greater efficiency and environmental security for energy sources worldwide.

Joining an Elite Global Fraternity

Rajashekara, 73, stands among an elite group of fewer than 10 fellows from the United States, out of a distinguished group comprising 800 fellows and 15 international fellows. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his exceptional contributions and the impact of his work on a global scale.

Cultivating Longstanding Relationships with Japan

“I am deeply honored to have been chosen as an International Fellow of the Engineering Academy of Japan, a distinction that I hold in high regard. This recognition reflects the longstanding relationships I’ve cultivated with several esteemed Japanese universities and industries throughout my career,” said Rajashekara, the director of the University of Houston’s Power Electronics, Microgrids and Subsea Electrical Systems Centre (PEMSEC).

For over three decades, Rajashekara has worked closely with Japanese students, engineers, and faculty members from various universities, fostering collaborations and knowledge exchange.

A Trailblazer in Electric Vehicle Technology

Rajashekara’s pioneering work in the field of electric vehicle technology has garnered significant recognition. As the former lead propulsion system engineer for General Motors’ IMPACT electric vehicle and as the chief technologist at Rolls-Royce Corporation, he has visited Japan frequently to deliver seminars and share his expertise.

Global Energy Prize: A Crowning Achievement

In 2022, Rajashekara received the prestigious Global Energy Prize, considered the most coveted prize in the field of international energy. He was one of only three people selected from a record 119 nominations from 43 countries, further solidifying his status as a visionary in the energy sector.

As a self-described “futurist,” Rajashekara is confident that flying cars are the next big thing, reflecting his forward-thinking approach and dedication to pioneering new frontiers in transportation and energy technologies.