Polish University Names Rozenblit as Honorary Professor

The Wrocław University of Science and Technology in Poland has named University Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Jerzy Rozenblit an honorary professor for his achievements in engineering and his focus on international collaboration. 

At the October 2023 award ceremony at his alma mater, the university president awarded him the honorary title during the formal inauguration of the new academic year.

Rozenblit, who is also the Raymond J. Oglethorpe Endowed Chair, earned his master's degree in computer science and engineering from WUST in 1980 before earning a PhD in computer science from Wayne State University in 1985. He served as the ECE department head from 2003 to 2011. 

Throughout his career, Rozenblit has maintained a connection with WUST as Fulbright Scholar in 2017 and serving as a visiting professor in 2021. He also facilitated a multi-year cooperation agreement between UA and WUST, which includes exchanging researchers and students working in scientific clubs.

Rozenblit holds a joint appointment in the UA Department of Surgery and has gained international recognition for his work in surgical training for robotic surgery and the application of information technology in clinical and academic medicine.

“Dr. Rozenblit’s appointment as an honorary professor at WUST is a testament to his exceptional contributions to the field of computer science and engineering and his commitment to fostering international collaboration,” said ECE Department Head Michael Wu. “In particular, his pioneering work in computer-aided simulation and surgical training has not only propelled the field forward but has also ignited the imaginations of researchers across generations.”

While the honor was a surprise, Rozenblit said WUST faculty provided him a few days’ notice to prepare a speech and invite guests to the award ceremony. Rozenblit stated that  “WUST is very strong in nanotech, materials science, electronics, and electrical and computer engineering. They excel in a lot of disciplines that make them similar to the UA’s College of Engineering. I hope this will lead to new opportunities for international collaboration and travel to Poland as well.” 

Rozenblit is eminently deserving of the honor, said Wu.

“His dedication to mentorship, combined with his visionary leadership in his research field, renders him an invaluable asset to our College of Engineering.”