Mines Environmental Engineering Professor Named Editor-in-Chief of Premier Science Journal
A South Dakota Mines professor has been named editor-in-chief of one of the world’s leading environmental engineering journals, marking a prestigious national recognition for both his work and the university’s growing research impact.
Environmental Engineering Science, a premier peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the advancements in environmental engineering and science, recently announced the appointment of Dr. Venkataramana Gadhamshetty, Mines professor of civil and environmental engineering, as its new editor-in-chief.
The publication is the premier journal for the Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors (AEESP) and has long been the publishing conduit for the environmental engineering academic profession.
“Dr. Gadhamshetty’s appointment as editor-in-chief of Environmental Engineering Science is a remarkable achievement that highlights the caliber of faculty at South Dakota Mines,” said Mines President Dr. Brian Tande. “This national recognition not only honors his individual excellence in research and leadership but also elevates the university’s growing impact on global environmental innovation and sustainability.”
Gadhamshetty succeeds Dr. Catherine Peters, a professor at Princeton University, whom he worked under as associate editor.
“I am honored to be appointed as the editor-in-chief of Environmental Engineering Science, succeeding a distinguished professor from Princeton University whose impactful leadership helped shape the journal’s legacy,” said Gadhamshetty.
The publication's announcement said Gadhamshetty brings a distinguished track record in convergence research that integrates fundamental science and real-world environmental challenges.
“A pioneer of innovative, use-inspired approach, his work spans critical areas including biofilm science, water and wastewater, water infrastructure, and sustainable materials,” stated the release. “His extensive expertise, innovative research, and commitment to advancing transdisciplinary research will be pivotal in maintaining the journal’s high standards and expanding its impact.”
As editor-in-chief, Gadhamshetty will provide strategic, scholarly and editorial leadership to ensure that Environmental Engineering Science continues to serve as the leading publication in the environmental engineering and science fields. He will oversee the journal content and peer review process and foster meaningful engagement within the global environmental engineering community.
In collaboration with the AEESP Executive Board, publication committee and other members, Gadhamshetty will work to develop and implement visionary ideas and advance the journal's impact and inclusivity through
“To have someone from our SD Mines faculty now serving as editor-in-chief for a high-level journal such as Environmental Engineering and Science (EES) Journal speaks volumes to the outstanding research capacity and scientific knowledge Ramana has been providing to SD Mines and the environmental engineering profession,” said Dr. James Stone, head of the university’s civil and environmental department.
Gadhamshetty has a longstanding history with Environmental Engineering Science going back to 2003 as a doctorate student under Dr. Nagamany Nirmalakhandan at New Mexico State University. “I had the opportunity to submit part of my doctoral research as a manuscript for the journal. That early experience left a lasting impression and has made this appointment especially meaningful,” he said.
His new role supports the university’s mission by elevating the visibility of research, education and innovation on national and global platforms. It also provides a unique opportunity to engage students, faculty and collaborators in transformative research and scholarly publishing while strengthening institutional ties to global networks focused on resilience, sustainability and innovation. He has led or co-led research projects totaling nearly $40 million in external funding from agencies, including the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, Department of Defense, NASA and Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement.
Gadhamshetty feels privileged to be part of a legacy shaped by pioneering experts like Dr. Peters of Princeton University, Dr. Domenico Grasso of the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and Dr. James Noble of Tufts University.
“Their leadership laid the foundation for the journal’s prominence, and I am honored to advance that tradition with a forward-looking vision centered on transdisciplinary excellence and broader societal impact,” he said.