Darsh Wasan, Distinguished Professor, Chbe at Illinois Institute of Technology | Illinois Institute of Technology
Príamo A. Melo Jr., a full professor at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, has joined the Illinois Institute of Technology’s Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering (CHBE) as the inaugural Darsh Wasan Visiting Professor for the fall 2025 semester.
The new professorship builds on the Darsh T. Wasan Lectureship Series, which has brought prominent scholars to Illinois Tech since 2008. The expanded format now allows visiting faculty to spend two to four months in residence, deliver the annual Darsh Wasan Lecture, offer short courses and guest lectures, and participate in various academic activities with students and faculty. The program is intended to support global collaboration and uphold the legacy of Distinguished Professor Emeritus Darsh T. Wasan.
Georgia Papavasiliou, CHBE department chair and professor of chemical engineering, said: “As we look ahead to an exciting new chapter for the CHBE department, we are proud to see the Darsh T. Wasan Lectureship evolve into the Darsh Wasan Visiting Professorship. This new format allows us to welcome world-renowned scholars such as Professor Príamo Melo for extended engagement, offering our students unique global perspectives and fostering deep research collaborations with faculty across the department. Professor Melo’s residency has already enriched our undergraduate and graduate programs through his lectures, short courses, and mentorship, continuing the legacy of excellence and innovation established by Professor Wasan.”
Melo commented on his new role: “It’s a great honor and also responsibility.”
Melo’s research centers on mathematical modeling, computer simulation, process control, and optimization of chemical systems. He focuses particularly on polymerization processes as well as petrochemical and nitrogen-based fertilizer production.
During his time at Illinois Tech, Melo will deliver the annual Darsh Wasan Lecture titled “Hunger for None: Powered by Chemical Engineering,” scheduled for October 22, 2025. His lecture will address his work on nitrogen-based fertilizers—critical components in crop growth that contribute significantly to food security worldwide.
“Chemical engineering plays a key role in this field, as chemical engineers are responsible for the design, operation, optimization, and modernization of nitrogen-based fertilizers in chemical plants,” said Melo.
He has expressed appreciation for collaborating directly with Illinois Tech faculty during his residency. In addition to teaching responsibilities, he is working on two books alongside S.C. Johnson Professor Fouad Teymour and Professor Satish Parulekar.
Melo emphasized his intention to build lasting connections between Illinois Tech’s CHBE department and Armour College faculty with those at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro: “The point is to make sure we create strong bonds that can build towards a continuation of cooperation and working together,” he said.
He also hopes to develop opportunities for student exchanges between the two universities.
“I’m very happy to be here,” said Melo. “The faculty have welcomed me warmly and given me all the support I need to work, and Chicago is a great city.”