March 16, 2022
James Klausner named interim executive director of Fraunhofer USA CMW
James Klausner has been named interim executive director of the Fraunhofer USA Center Midwest (CMW) effective February 15, 2022. The appointment is expected to be formalized as Executive Director by the Board of Directors of Fraunhofer USA later this year.
Klausner returns to Michigan State University following a one-year assignment as dean of the College of Engineering at United Arab Emirates (UAE) University, that nation’s flagship university.
CMW is a partnership between MSU and Fraunhofer USA, an affiliate of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, the leading organization for applied research in Europe. Since 2003, Fraunhofer USA and Michigan State University have collaborated in applied research on a broad range of material development and processing capabilities focused on innovative solutions for thin film and diamond applications.
MSU Engineering Dean Leo Kempel said Klausner will have overall responsibility for the Center Midwest operations, which is closely integrated with the College of Engineering and engages faculty members and students from several departments, as well as the laser applications division in Plymouth which offers process solutions ranging from micro to macro scale.
“We are pleased that James accepted this role. He is a recognized, energetic and creative leader who is well suited to lead center operations and deliver competitive next generation technology solutions for customers,” Kemple continued.
Fraunhofer USA President Thomas Schuelke expressed his full support of James Klausner.
“We are delighted that James will lead the Center and are very much looking forward to continuing the fruitful collaboration with MSU to advance technology for the benefit of society,” Schuelke shared.
Dr. Klausner previously served as chairperson of the Department of Mechanical Engineering for 6 years, as a program director at the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E), and as Newton C. Ebaugh Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Florida in Gainesville. His professional interests focus on developing major clean energy research initiatives.
Communications Contact: Patricia Mroczek
