The Charles B. Wang Center at Stony Brook University hosted the annual meeting of the Stony Brook University Chapter of The National Academy of Inventors (NAI-SBU Chapter) on May 6. The event celebrated innovation and inventorship within the university, featuring an induction award ceremony and reception.
“In a university that is responsible for contributions towards inventing the MRI, uncovering the cause of Lyme disease, and discovering new species, like the Golden Bamboo Lemur, it is no wonder this chapter is host to so many talented individuals,” said Interim President McCormick. “By joining the NAI, you join a network of inventors from a wide range of fields and expertise, and together you will collaborate, connect, and share your passions for inventing while recognizing your accomplishments as patent holders.”
Kevin Gardner, vice president for research and innovation, remarked on the significance of academic invention: “The Stony Brook chapter of the National Academy of Inventors is a powerful reflection of our university’s dedication to transformative discovery.” He emphasized how honoring inventors highlights their role in technological progress.
Sean Boykevisch, executive director of the NAI-SBU Chapter, began with opening remarks alongside Interim President McCormick. NAI Fellow Iwao Ojima presented a review of chapter activities since its establishment in 2015. New members were inducted into NAI membership during a pin ceremony moderated by Boykevisch.
“The impact of our new team member’s research is truly remarkable,” said Boykevisch. “From enabling room-temperature quantum computer communication to developing innovative surgical tools that elevate clinical care.”
Devinder Mahajan delivered a keynote lecture titled "Monetizing Stranded and Local Feedstocks: A Case Study to Produce Fuels in Modular Systems." His work focuses on methane generation from various sources to extend domestic energy resources.
Awards were given to Young Academic Inventors including Christopher Ashdown for inventions related to immune function enhancement; Lauren Maloney for her motion-adaptive training system; Aaron Sloutski for hydrogels targeting brain aneurysms and dental applications.
“This spirit of innovation is exactly why I’ve been proud to call SBU home for 17 years,” shared Maloney. Sloutski expressed gratitude upon receiving his award: “I am honored...to express my sincere gratitude...to my past and current colleagues whose collaboration and support have been crucial.”
Anurag Purwar spoke about NSF I-Corps before closing remarks from SBU Chief Innovation Officer Michael Kinch concluded proceedings. Ojima reflected on community achievements: “This year’s annual meeting...demonstrated the vigor...of academic inventors.” The event ended with a reception celebrating invention's role in societal progress.