Maryland, Annapolis: Vikrant C. Aute has taken the helm of the University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Energy Engineering (CSE), where he will spearhead advanced research efforts, broaden academic and industry partnerships, and champion innovations in sustainable energy.
The University of Maryland has officially named Aute, a seasoned research professor, as the new director of CE. His appointment marks a continued commitment to advancing next-generation energy systems tailored for buildings and transportation sectors.
Having served as co-director since 2019, Aute now assumes full leadership of the center. His vision will guide CEEE’s ongoing mission to develop cost-efficient and environmentally sound energy conversion technologies.
The center has been vital in solving pressing industry problems and facilitating the adoption of new technologies. Under Aute’s stewardship, it aims to further its influence in the HVAC&R sector and push forward developments in eco-friendly energy systems, according to a university announcement.
“Vikrant’s leadership will ensure that CE remains at the cutting edge of HVAC&R innovation and continues to grow its impact in the evolving field of sustainable energy solutions,” said Harry Dankowicz, chair of UMD’s mechanical engineering department, which oversees the center.
Globally respected for his work in heat exchanger technologies and thermal system optimization, Aute has played a central role in designing software platforms that have reshaped how HVAC&R systems are conceptualized and built.
His professional background includes tenures at companies such as Thermax Ltd., Tata Infotech Ltd., and Daikin Industries Ltd. Aute is a Fellow of both ASHRAE and ASME and has earned several awards recognizing his technical excellence and industry impact.
Auto holds a doctorate in mechanical engineering from the University of Maryland. He has received notable honors such as the Provost’s Excellence in Research Award from the University of Maryland and the Outstanding Performance Award from the Dean of the Clark School of Engineering.
Since its founding in 1991, CE has been at the forefront of research in air conditioning, refrigeration, and integrated thermal systems, helping to shape the future of energy efficiency in heating and cooling technologies.
