Karen I. Winey ’91 Elected to the National Academy of Engineering
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Karen I. Winey ’91, a PhD graduate of the College of Natural Sciences’ Department of Polymer Science and Engineering (PSE) and the Harold Pender Professor of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Pennsylvania, was elected to the 2025 class of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), among the highest honors in engineering. She was recognized for pioneering contributions to polymer nanocomposites and ion-containing polymers, and advancing understanding of how polymer structure influences material properties for applications in energy, sustainability, and advanced materials.
Her current research interests include ion-containing polymers, polymer upcycling, and polymer nanocomposites. In her work with ion-containing polymers, Winey combines advanced characterization methods with polymer design to better understand and improve ion transport—an area important to the development of electrochemical technologies. She also leads a Department of Energy-funded research effort focused on converting polyolefins into higher-value plastics, advancing approaches to polymer sustainability and reuse. In the area of polymer nanocomposites, her group has developed materials incorporating carbon nanotubes and metal nanowires to understand and improve mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties.
Throughout her career, Winey has combined experimental research with simulation and theory, working both within her research group and with collaborators across disciplines. She has published more than 250 papers and holds 21 patents.
A proud PSE alumna, Winey credits the department’s interdisciplinary approach as an important foundation for her career. “When I was looking at graduate programs, I knew I wanted to study polymers after studying materials science as an undergraduate,” said Winey. “The PSE department was a perfect fit for me, because it covered all aspects of polymers from synthesis to engineering, which has proven valuable throughout my career.”
Winey has maintained a close connection with the UMass community throughout her career, continuing to engage with the department and the next generation of polymer scientists and engineers.
“I am thrilled to be a member of the NAE and grateful to my students, postdocs, and collaborators for their countless contributions,” said Winey.
Al Crosby, PSE department head, praised Winey’s accomplishments and lasting influence on the field of polymer science and engineering. “Professor Winey has had an absolutely wonderful and impactful career. Her approach to materials based on the foundations of polymer science has led to numerous key insights that have allowed key societal challenges to be met through new innovative design. She works seamlessly at the interface between fundamental science and applied technologies. We can’t be more proud of her and her research accomplishments, and to have her as one of our alumni!”
Winey’s election to the National Academy of Engineering places her among the most distinguished engineers and innovators in the world. Her achievement reflects both her extraordinary contributions to polymer science and engineering and the continued global impact of UMass PSE alumni.
Learn more about the National Academy of Engineering.