The American Nuclear Society (ANS) has named Minami Yoda, Red Cedar Distinguished Professor and chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Michigan State University, as a 2025 Fellow of ANS.
According to ANS, the ANS Fellow designation is the society’s highest honor awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to nuclear science and technology. Candidates demonstrate significant achievements in areas such as research, technical leadership, education, operations or regulatory excellence. Fellows are selected through a rigorous nomination and review process, with final approval by the ANS Board of Directors.
Yoda was recognized for fundamental contributions to the thermal fluids aspects of fusion technology, including liquid protection and gas cooling of reactor first walls in inertial and magnetic fusion energy.
“I am honored to be recognized by the nuclear engineering community and grateful to my collaborators and students for their contributions to advancing the thermal fluids aspects of fusion technology,” Yoda said.
In addition to her research accomplishments, Yoda has co-authored more than 120 related journal articles, advised numerous graduate students, and participated in national and international design studies.
“Congratulations to Minami,” said John Papapolymerou, interim dean of the MSU College of Engineering. “Her pioneering work in fusion technology reflects the highest standards of research excellence within our faculty. Through her leadership and mentorship, she continues to inspire both her peers and the next generation of engineers.”
Yoda will be recognized at the 2025 Winter Conference and Expo in Washington, D.C., Nov. 9-12, 2025.
Yoda received her bachelor’s degree at Caltech and completed her doctoral degree in Aeronautics and Astronautics at Stanford University. She conducted her postdoctoral research as a von Humboldt Foundation and National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow at the Technical University of Berlin in Germany. She was a visiting researcher at the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands and the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology in Japan. Yoda served at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where she was a Ring Family Professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering. She joined MSU College of Engineering in November 2023.
About the American Nuclear Society
The American Nuclear Society (ANS) is the premier organization for those who embrace the nuclear sciences and technologies for their vital contributions to improving people’s lives and preserving the planet.
ANS membership is open to all and includes engineers, doctors, students, educators, scientists, soldiers, advocates, government employees and others. ANS is committed to advancing, fostering, and promoting the development and application of nuclear sciences and technologies to benefit society.
Written by Judi Melena Smelser
MSU College of Engineering Media and Public Relations page