Rigoberto “Gobet” Advincula has been named the newest joint UT-Oak Ridge National Laboratory Governor’s Chair, the 15th active faculty member in the program and CBE’s third.

Advincula is an expert in polymers and materials science, particularly nanostructured materials, the ninth Governor’s Chair to hold an appointment involving advanced materials, highlighting its importance to both UT and ORNL.

“I am honored to join both ORNL and UT as a Governor’s Chair and excited to be able to contribute to the success and prestige of both institutions,” said Advincula, who is now the Governor’s Chair of Advanced and Nanostructured Materials.

The Governor’s Chair program was begun as a way to help ORNL, one of the world’s most prestigious and preeminent labs, and UT, the state’s flagship institution, attract faculty, students, and researchers.

In addition to advanced materials, Governor’s Chair professors play key roles in advanced manufacturing, biological sciences, energy sciences, nuclear engineering, and urban design.

“Our joint efforts with ORNL have positioned us as leaders in many fields, with advanced materials and polymers being of particular importance,” said UT Provost David Manderscheid. “Dr. Advincula brings an expertise that will elevate us even further and I am eager to see the breakthroughs that lie ahead.”

View a full release and profile of the newest Governor’s Chair.