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Newswise — DALLAS (SMU) – , Robert C. Womack Endowed Chair Professor in Engineering at SMU, has been named a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI).  

Being inducted into the NAI is the highest professional distinction awarded to academic inventors. NAI are active faculty, scientists, and administrators who have had success in patents, licensing, and commercialization and have produced technologies that have brought or aspire to bring real impact on the welfare of society. They are widely regarded as innovative powerhouses who foster a spirit of innovation within their communities and institutions while educating and mentoring the next generation of inventors.

The academy selected Kim to be one of the 2025 Senior Members for his groundbreaking work in nanopore technology. He is internationally known for his contributions to the development of nano- and microbiotics and their broad applications for nanomedicine. For instance, he has developed devices that may one day deliver drugs to tumors, clear out clogged arteries, and help doctors see what’s happening inside the body’s hardest-to-reach spaces. 

Kim said he was deeply honored to be named an NAI Senior Member.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit of my colleagues and students, whose contributions have been instrumental in advancing our nanopore research and innovation efforts for single molecule and single particle analysis,” he said. “I am excited to continue developing nanopore technologies that drive meaningful impact and to be part of the NAI’s mission to foster academic invention and commercialization. I look forward to engaging with this distinguished community of innovators and contributing to the broader innovation ecosystem."

Previous SMU professors who have been inducted to NAI as Fellows are: J.C. Chiao (2023), Gary Evans (2020), Provost Elizabeth Loboa (2018) and Bruce Gnade (2017). 

Kim is one of 162 Senior Members who will be recognized in June at the 14th in Atlanta, Georgia. A full list can be found .    

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