Todd Otanicar, associate dean for research affairs in the College of Engineering at Boise State University, has been selected as a 2026 Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI), according to a Mar. 17 announcement. The recognition is considered one of the highest honors for inventors and highlights significant entrepreneurial activity and potential for social and economic impact.
Otanicar joins a global group of 230 faculty, scientists, and research leaders from 82 institutions who collectively hold more than 2,000 U.S. patents as new Senior Members. At Boise State, he is one of two active professors who are members of NAI, alongside Distinguished Professor Peter Müllner from the Micron School of Materials Science and Engineering.
“Dr. Otanicar’s recognition and induction to the National Academy of Inventors is an exceptional reflection of his commitment to solving real-world challenges that improve and benefit our communities and society,” said Amy Fleischer, dean of the College of Engineering. “His work exemplifies the spirit and innovation that defines the College of Engineering.”
Otanicar leads the Thermal Transport and Solar Energy Laboratory in the Department of Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering. His research focuses on advanced heat and mass transfer solutions for next-generation energy systems with applications in solar thermal power, photovoltaics, desalination, and energy storage. His projects have received support from federal agencies such as the National Science Foundation, NASA, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of the Interior, as well as industry partners.
Over his career, Otanicar has developed multiple U.S. and international patents related to energy systems and advanced thermal technologies. “This honor recognizes one of my central goals as a researcher to develop technologies that make a real-world impact,” Otanicar said. “I’m equally excited to help guide the next generation of engineers and scientists as they grow into innovators and inventors.”
Nancy Glenn, Boise State University Vice President of Research and Economic Development, said: “Todd’s induction into the National Academy of Inventors highlights the caliber and real-world impact of research happening at Boise State. His work is advancing next-generation technologies, and his commitment to mentoring student innovators ensures that impact will continue well into the future.”
The recognition marks another achievement for Boise State’s engineering research efforts as faculty continue developing technologies addressing challenges in energy, materials science, biomedical fields, infrastructure development, computing advancements while preparing students for leadership roles in discovery.
