Michael Solomon named Bernard J. Lucci Professor of Chemical Engineering
The endowed professorship was established in 2024 as a gift from the Estate of Bernard J. Lucci.
Michael J. Solomon, Chemical Engineering professor and dean of the Rackham Graduate School, has been named the Bernard J. Lucci Professor of Chemical Engineering. The professorship, which was established in 2024 as a gift from the Estate of Bernard J. Lucci, recognizes Solomon’s outstanding academic achievements and internationally recognized contributions to the field of soft matter.
“My professional path at Michigan has been a direct consequence of student, post-doc, and faculty collaborators who have made my work in the department, college, and university so fulfilling.”
Michael J. Solomon
Bernard J. Lucci Professor of Chemical Engineering
“I’m honored that my colleagues have recognized my contributions in this way, and grateful to the estate of Bernard J. Lucci for creating the legacy of this professorship,” Solomon said. “My professional path at Michigan has been a direct consequence of student, post-doc, and faculty collaborators who have made my work in the department, college, and university so fulfilling.”
Solomon holds dual undergraduate degrees in chemical engineering and economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a PhD in chemical engineering from the University of California, Berkeley. He joined the University of Michigan (U-M) as an assistant professor in 1997 and became a full professor in 2009.
Throughout his career, Solomon has been a pioneering figure in soft matter and colloidal systems, exploring how microscopic structures impact material properties. His group’s research has advanced rheology, particularly in understanding colloidal gels and the applications of anisotropic colloids in sustainable materials and energy management. He is also recognized for his work on microbial biofilm rheology and for developing influential microscopy techniques.
In addition to his research, Solomon has held significant leadership roles, currently serving as dean of the Rackham Graduate School and vice provost for academic affairs since 2018. He has made notable contributions to U-M’s curriculum, creating undergraduate and graduate courses that deepen students’ understanding of polymer science and colloidal assembly.
Solomon’s work has earned him numerous accolades, including a National Science Foundation CAREER Award, the U-M Henry Russel Award, and the Royal Society of Chemistry Soft Matter Lectureship. He is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Physical Society, and the Society of Rheology. Solomon has mentored over 40 PhD students, seven post-doctoral fellows, and more than 60 undergraduate researchers, exemplifying his commitment to guiding future engineers.
With over 130 peer-reviewed publications, Solomon’s research continues to shape the field of chemical engineering.