Dr. James Amburgey and Dr. Olya Keen Named Senior Members of the National Academy of Inventors
The Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering is proud to announce that Dr. James Amburgey and Dr. Olya Keen have been named Senior Members of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI). This distinguished recognition, awarded on February 20, 2025, honors academic inventors whose work in patents, technology commercialization, and innovation has significantly contributed to real-world advancements.
Dr. James Amburgey – Innovating Water Treatment Solutions
An Associate Professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Dr. James Amburgey has dedicated his career to improving water quality and treatment processes. Holding four issued patents, his groundbreaking work in water filtration and pathogen removal has been successfully commercialized across North America, directly benefiting public health. As a leader at Water Treatment Research, Inc., he continues to bridge the gap between academic research and industry, ensuring that innovative water treatment solutions are effectively implemented to provide cleaner, safer drinking water to millions.

Dr. Olya Keen – Leading Sustainable Water Research

Dr. Olya Keen, also an Associate Professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering, is recognized for her pioneering research in advanced water treatment technologies. Her work focuses on contaminant removal and water reuse, addressing critical challenges in environmental sustainability and public health. Through her commitment to mentorship and translating research into real-world applications, she has played a vital role in developing innovative water treatment strategies that benefit both communities and industries.
The induction of Dr. Amburgey and Dr. Keen as Senior Members of the NAI highlights their dedication to advancing science and technology for the greater good. Their achievements contribute to solving some of the most pressing water treatment and sustainability challenges facing the world today.
Congratulations to you both!
To read more about their work & their fellow honorees click the link below!