Neil Armstrong Distinguished Visiting Professors - Purdue University

Launched in 2019 during Purdue University's 150th anniversary celebration, the prestigious Neil Armstrong Distinguished Visiting Professors (NADVP) Program brings highly accomplished and recognized scholars and practitioners to Purdue Engineering to catalyze collaborations with faculty and students.

Honoring Neil Armstrong's legacy of innovation and exploration, the program welcomes preeminent leaders in their fields, typically fellows of the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

Transformative Research. Meaningful Engagement. Lasting Impact.

Neil Armstrong Distinguished Visiting Professors team with Purdue Engineering faculty to pursue transformative research projects, explore new research directions, strengthen industry engagement, and advance initiatives in entrepreneurship and education.

Through interdisciplinary collaboration, engagement with students and faculty, and the development of global partnerships, NADVPs bring new perspectives and expertise to Purdue while helping advance the College of Engineering's mission of innovation and impact.

Neil Armstrong Distinguished Visiting Professor (2023-2026)

Ronald Latanision, an emeritus professor at MIT, held key positions in materials science and engineering. He's a member of the National Academy of Engineering and a fellow of several prestigious institutions. Latanision's research focuses on materials processing and corrosion science. He has served as a science advisor to the U.S. government and was appointed to the U.S. Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board by two presidents. In this interview, he shares insights into his life and career as well as his journey as a researcher and mentor. Read more...