We are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our faculty, whose dedication to advancing research, fostering innovation, and mentoring the next generation continues to elevate our center’s impact.
Dr. Rafael Hernández Receives Eminent Faculty Award
Wed, 02/11/2026 - 12:14pm
Dr. Rafael Hernández is a Distinguished Professor Award Recipient for the Eminent Faculty Awards in 2026. He is the department head and a professor for the Department of Chemical Engineering, as well as the interim department head for the Department of Petroleum Engineering. He holds the J. Madison Nelson Board of Regents Professorship in Chemical Engineering as well as the Contractors Educational Trust Board of Regents Professorship in Petroleum Engineering. He also serves as the Associate Executive Director of the Energy Institute of Louisiana and the Director of the Chemicals and Fuels Development Center.
Dr. Hernández’s research has allowed for significant advancements in the fields of chemical and petroleum engineering, including his research exploring the ability to convert wastewater into sustainable sources of biofuel as well as the development of a catalyst to remove sulfur from natural gas. His research and leadership have advanced collaborations across academia, industry, and government, supporting the development of sustainable technologies and workforce-ready graduates.