This year, 12 distinguished professors from Columbia University’s School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) were granted tenure—a recognition of their groundbreaking contributions to their respective fields. Among them is Matthias Preindl, Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering, known for his influential work in power electronics and battery management.
Preindl’s research focuses on advancing the efficiency and reliability of power systems in electric vehicles (EVs) and smart grids. His primary areas of expertise include software-defined power converters, innovative battery tracking and management systems, and optimal motor drive control. While his core contributions target electric transportation, his work also extends to renewable energy systems, industrial motor drives, and stationary storage for smart grids, establishing him as a versatile and impactful researcher.
Preindl’s achievements have been recognized through numerous accolades, including the prestigious CAREER award from the National Science Foundation and multiple Best Paper awards. Most notably, he received the Vehicle-to-Everything Innovation of the Year award in 2023, highlighting his innovative approach to bridging mobility with connectivity in the automotive sector.
Originally from Italy, Preindl completed his PhD at the University of Padua, where his passion for electrical engineering and energy systems first took root. He joined Columbia’s faculty in 2016, where he has since been a driving force in pushing the boundaries of power electronics, focusing on real-world applications that align with the growing demands of sustainable energy and mobility.
With tenure, Preindl is set to continue expanding his pioneering work, leveraging the interdisciplinary environment at Columbia to explore new solutions in power electronics and energy systems.
For more information, visit the full list of tenure professors here.
