Allen will continue to lead the department in its mission to be the global academic leader in the innovation and evolution of nuclear engineering, uses of radiation, and plasma science.
Todd Allen has been reappointed as the Glenn F. and Gladys H. Knoll Department Chair of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences of the Department of Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences at the University of Michigan for an additional three-year term. Allen, who has served as the chair for the past five years, will continue to lead the department in its mission to be the global academic leader in the innovation and evolution of nuclear engineering, uses of radiation, and plasma science.
Under Allen’s leadership, the department has retained the #1 nuclear engineering program ranking (U.S. News & World Report) and achieved significant milestones and advancements in both academic and research domains. His dedication to fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking environment has contributed to the department’s success in maintaining its position at the forefront of nuclear engineering and radiological sciences.
Throughout his tenure as chair, Allen has demonstrated a commitment to interdisciplinary research, encouraging faculty and students to explore novel approaches to addressing the challenges and opportunities in the field. This includes founding the Fastest Path to Zero Initiative, an interdisciplinary team of experts, including University of Michigan faculty, staff, and students, working to support communities as they plan and pursue ambitious climate goals.
“I have truly enjoyed working with our students, faculty, and staff,” said Allen. “Maintaining our expected level of excellence while nearly one-third of our faculty changed due to retirements demonstrates how special a culture exists in NERS. Leaders and Best!”
His vision for the department aligns with the college’s broader goal of People-first Engineering—a goal and practice centered on closing critical gaps, fostering collaboration across disciplines, and promoting equity-centered values to empower engineers with the skills needed to understand and address global challenges, ultimately shaping a future that uplifts all individuals.
Allen’s reappointment reflects the university’s confidence in his leadership abilities and the positive impact he has had on the department. His collaborative and inclusive approach has strengthened relationships with industry partners, government agencies, and other academic institutions, positioning the department as a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation.
“Todd has done a commendable job leading the top-ranked NERS department over the past five years,” said Steve Ceccio, Interim Dean of Engineering at the University of Michigan. “I am confident the department will continue to thrive under his leadership.
As the Department of Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences looks to the future, Professor Todd Allen’s reappointment ensures continuity and stability, providing a foundation for continued growth and success.