Bai Cui, professor of mechanical and materials engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, has been named a fellow of the American Ceramic Society, one of the most prestigious honors in the field of ceramic materials and engineering. He is the first Husker faculty member to receive the distinction, according to available records.
Established in 1898, the American Ceramic Society is one of the world's leading professional organizations dedicated to ceramic materials and engineering. Fellowship is the society's highest recognition, honoring individuals whose research, education and professional leadership have made lasting contributions to the field.
"I'm deeply honored to be elected a fellow of the American Ceramic Society," Cui said. "While this recognition acknowledges contributions to ceramic materials and manufacturing research and professional service, it also reflects the strong support of many colleagues, students, mentors, collaborators and university leaders who have been part of this journey."
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Cui's research focuses on developing advanced ceramic materials capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, radiation and other harsh environments. His work has expanded understanding of how these materials behave under demanding conditions, supporting advances in aerospace, nuclear energy and advanced manufacturing.
Cui leads the Materials for Extreme Environments Laboratory, where his team develops advanced materials using compositionally complex (high-entropy) and microstructure-design concepts to withstand extreme heat, corrosion and irradiation. His group published the first peer-reviewed study on compositionally complex carbides and later demonstrated their exceptional resistance to irradiation. They also developed laser-based processing technologies, including selective laser sintering for ceramics and a patented high-temperature laser shock peening system that enhances material performance.
Cui's influence also extends beyond the laboratory. He recently secured a $1.4 million U.S. Department of Energy grant to establish Nebraska's Nuclear Reactor Safety Training and Workforce Development Program. The project brings together the university, Nebraska Public Power District, Idaho National Laboratory and other partners to expand nuclear engineering education, create new workforce training opportunities and help prepare the skilled workforce needed to support Nebraska's evolving energy economy.
At Nebraska, Cui has distinguished himself as a mentor and collaborator, guiding graduate students and building interdisciplinary partnerships that elevate the College of Engineering's profile in materials science. He has also been active in the American Ceramic Society, serving as chair of the Manufacturing Division (2025-26), holding other leadership roles, and helping organize numerous conferences and symposia that advance the field.
"I am excited to continue working with students and colleagues to advance materials science and engineering, help prepare the next generation of engineers and scientists, and contribute to Nebraska's growing leadership in advanced materials and manufacturing research," Cui said.
