Article by Hillary Hoffman
The University of Delaware College of Engineering has named four faculty members to key leadership roles, strengthening its capacity to support a growing portfolio of research, education, innovation and engagement activities, while also providing continuity in departmental leadership.
Srikanth Pilla has been appointed associate dean for Research, succeeding Mark Mirotznik, whose term recently concluded. Jenni Buckley has been named the college’s first associate dean for Corporate Engagement and Entrepreneurship.
Additionally, two faculty members who have been serving in interim roles have accepted formal appointments as department chairs. Herbert Tanner will lead the Department of Mechanical Engineering, while Hui Fang has been appointed chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
Bolstering efforts to translate discovery into impact
Pilla’s and Buckley’s appointments reflect an intentional expansion of the college’s leadership structure to better support the scale, complexity and ambition of its research, education, innovation and engagement activities. Working closely together, the two associate deans will strengthen pathways from discovery to impact across the college. The college is also forming an Advisory Council Industrial Partnership Development Committee, which will be chaired by Executive-in-Residence Helen Stimson, to support both functions. This work will connect research, teaching and workforce development to real-world applications through strong external partnerships.
Pilla is director of the Center for Composite Materials and a professor with appointments in the Departments of Mechanical Engineering, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering and Computer and Information Sciences. As associate dean for Research, he will provide strategic leadership and oversight of the college’s research enterprise. This includes developing and implementing strategies to expand research funding, partnerships and technology transfer, while ensuring effective management of research infrastructure, compliance and support services.
Buckley, a professor of mechanical engineering, was instrumental in creating the Design Studio and the Interdisciplinary Senior Design Program, working closely with local industry and alumni to build and strengthen both initiatives. As the inaugural associate dean for Corporate Engagement and Entrepreneurship, she will deepen the college’s partnerships with industry, government and nonprofit organizations and advance efforts to translate research discoveries into societal impact.
Providing continuity and stability at the departmental level
At the department level, the appointments of Tanner and Fang provide continuity and stability following their service in acting roles, positioning the Departments of Mechanical Engineering and Electrical and Computer Engineering for continued excellence in research, education and engagement.
Tanner is a professor and director of the Center for Autonomous and Robotic Systems. His research focuses on the planning and control of robotic systems, with particular emphasis on coordinating multiple systems to work together. In addition to his research accomplishments, Tanner has demonstrated sustained leadership within the University through his service as associate chair for Graduate Education, where he has helped strengthen academic programs, foster interdisciplinary collaboration and support student success.
Fang is a professor specializing in information retrieval and data discovery using artificial intelligence, developing advanced systems to transform vast digital landscapes into actionable, high-precision knowledge. Her research leverages AI to reduce information overload in areas including education, disaster research and scientific discovery. Fang is also known for her dedication to teaching and mentorship, having guided students at all levels and contributed to curriculum development that prepares graduates for rapidly evolving careers.
Together, these appointments reflect the college’s commitment to strategic growth, strong academic leadership and continued excellence across research, education and engagement.