PULLMAN, Wash. — James Petersen, professor of chemical engineering, has been appointed associate dean for research and graduate programs in Washington State University’s College of Engineering and Architecture.
He came to WSU in 1994 and was appointed director of the Center for Multiphase Research in 1996. Petersen is also the interim executive director of the Inland Northwest Research Alliance, a consortium of regional universities established to address environmental research and other scientific issues in cooperation with the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory.
One of WSU’s leading researchers, Petersen’s work has focused on developing bioremediation models to control environmental contamination. The National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Energy, the Washington Technology Center and other federal agencies have funded his research.
A 1976 graduate of Montana State University, Petersen earned his doctorate in chemical engineering from Iowa State University in 1979.
In announcing the appointment, Dean Anjan Bose acknowledged the leadership of John Ringo in expanding research within the college, now measured at more than $10 million annually. Ringo continues as director of the federally supported Center for Design of Analog-
Digital Integrated Circuits and the college’s academic program in engineering management.
