UC San Diego's Miroslav Krstic Earns Coveted CNRS Fellow-Ambassador Title, Strengthening Global Scientific Ties

There's a wonderful buzz in the air at UC San Diego, especially within the Jacobs School of Engineering, as one of its very own, Professor Miroslav Krstic, has been honored with a truly prestigious international appointment. He’s been named a 2025 Fellow-Ambassador by the French National Centre for Scientific Research, better known as CNRS. This isn't just a fancy title; it's a significant recognition of his groundbreaking work and a fantastic opportunity to deepen scientific ties between the U.S. and France.

Professor Krstic, who many know as a Distinguished Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and also as the Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Research, holds the esteemed Daniel L. Alspach Professorship in Dynamic Systems and Controls. His expertise, frankly, is immense. He’s a world-renowned authority in the field of control systems – essentially, how we make complex systems behave exactly as we want them to, from aerospace applications to cutting-edge robotics. His contributions have genuinely shaped the landscape of this critical engineering discipline.

Now, what exactly does being a CNRS Fellow-Ambassador entail? Well, this program, which first launched in 2023, is designed to bring top-tier international scientists into closer collaboration with French research institutions. It's an invitation, really, to spend dedicated time in France, sharing knowledge, sparking new ideas, and fostering joint projects. Krstic will be part of the 2025-2027 cohort, immersing himself in the vibrant French scientific community. Alain Schuhl, the Deputy CEO for Science at CNRS, once highlighted the program's intent: to attract "the very best international scientists" to bolster collaborations. It’s clear Professor Krstic fits that bill perfectly.

Imagine the potential here! This appointment is poised to facilitate even more robust exchanges in scientific research and education. For UC San Diego, and particularly for the Jacobs School, it’s a wonderful validation of the caliber of talent and innovation nurtured right here in La Jolla, California. It opens doors for students and fellow researchers, potentially leading to exciting international opportunities and a broadened perspective on global challenges.

Professor Krstic's tenure as a Fellow-Ambassador will undoubtedly lead to exciting advancements, building bridges that transcend geographical boundaries. It’s a testament not only to his individual brilliance but also to UC San Diego's commitment to pushing the frontiers of knowledge on a global stage. We can certainly look forward to hearing about the innovative projects and partnerships that will emerge from this significant collaboration.