Fatima Toor named Senior Member of National Academy of Inventors

A University of Iowa engineering professor specializing in semiconductor optoelectronics has been selected for the 2026 class of Senior Members of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI).

Fatima Toor, professor of electrical and computer engineering and Lowell G. Battershell Chair in Laser Engineering, joins the 2026 Senior Members cohort of 230 inventors from 82 NAI member Institutions worldwide who collectively hold over 2,000 U.S. patents.

"Prof. Toor exemplifies the creativity, persistence, and impact that defines our engineering faculty," said Ann McKenna, the Dick and Judy Smith Dean of the College of Engineering. "Her innovations have advanced the field of photonics while creating real pathways for societal and economic benefit. Being named an NAI Senior Member is a testament to her contributions as both a researcher and innovator, and we are proud to see her recognized at the national level."

Toor was also recently selected for the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Fellow Pathway Program, which is designed for exceptional faculty members with strong potential to be recognized with prestigious national and international awards. The AAAS membership is the first step toward becoming an AAAS Fellow.

The NAI's 2026 Senior Member class highlights emerging academic inventors who have demonstrated success in patents, licensing, commercialization, and translational research that positively impacts society. Launched in 2018, the Senior Member program recognizes active faculty, scientists, and administrators who are rising leaders in innovation within their institutions.

"This year's Senior Member class is a truly impressive cohort. These innovators come from a variety of fields and disciplines, translating their technologies into tangible impact," Paul R. Sanberg, NAI president said in announcing the 2026 class. "I commend them on their incredible pursuits, and I'm honored to welcome them to the Academy."

Today, there are 945 Senior Members holding over 11,000 U.S. patents.

Toor's selection reflects her contributions as a researcher and inventor, including advancements in optoelectronic devices, sensor technologies, and energy-related innovations. Her work has been translated into multiple patents and has supported collaborations across academia, industry, and federal research partners, and has led to the formation of start-up companies, including Juggernaut Life Sciences and MIRTHzPhotonics, based in Coralville, Iowa.