Professor Michael Ortiz, a globally recognized expert in computational mechanics and numerical methods, has officially arrived in Barcelona this April to assume his role as the head of the UNESCO Chair in Numerical Methods in Engineering at the International Centre for Numerical Methods in Engineering (CIMNE) and the Technical University of Catalonia (UPC). While Prof. Ortiz has held this position since January 1, 2025, he will now physically lead the Chair's activities, combining this role with his ongoing affiliation as Professor Emeritus at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech).
In his capacity as Chair, Prof. Ortiz will spearhead research in two ground-breaking areas: Quantum Computational Mechanics and Data-Enhanced Simulation. These fields are expected to transform engineering and physical sciences by enabling unprecedented precision and efficiency in solving complex problems. Quantum Computational Mechanics leverages quantum computing to tackle challenges such as multiscale modelling and material behaviour analysis, while Data-Enhanced Simulation integrates large datasets into computational models to enhance predictive accuracy.
Speaking on the significance of these research lines, Prof. Ortiz stated: “These technologies have the potential to transform engineering by providing solutions that were previously unattainable.” He further emphasized that CIMNE’s collaborative environment within the UPC premises offers “a unique platform for translating cutting-edge research into practical applications”.
Prof. Ortiz's appointment is a significant milestone for CIMNE, in line with its strategic goal to pioneering research with tangible societal benefits. Dr. Javier Bonet, General Director of CIMNE, remarked: “Having Prof. Ortiz on-site is a tremendous asset for our institution. His expertise will strengthen our position as a global leader in computational mechanics and inspire innovation across disciplines.”
Prof. Bonet (left) and Ortiz, today, at CIMNE
About Prof. Michael Ortiz
Prof. Ortiz is a dual American-Spanish scientist with an illustrious career spanning over four decades. He earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, and has held prominent positions at institutions such as Brown University and Caltech. Renowned for his contributions to material modelling, finite element analysis, and multiscale methods, he has received numerous distinctions, including the von Neumann Medal and Timoshenko Medal. He is also an elected member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering and a corresponding member of the Spanish Academy of Engineering.
The UNESCO Chair at CIMNE and UPC
Established in 1989 as the first UNESCO Chair of its kind, this professorship aims to promote the development and application of numerical methods across all branches of engineering through research excellence and international collaboration. Managed jointly by CIMNE and UPC, the Chair has been central in advancing computational techniques to address global challenges under the leadership of Prof. Zienkiewicz (1989-2009), Prof. Périaux (2009-2024) and, Prof. Ortiz, since 2025.