Evelyn Wang, a renowned mechanical engineering professor and the new vice president for energy and climate at MIT, is tackling the critical issue of climate change with her signature problem-solving expertise. With an enduring sense of optimism, she aims to strengthen the American energy economy and ensure resilience for all.
Wang began her work this spring, overseeing MIT’s expanding research portfolio on climate change. This includes broadening existing initiatives, scaling up innovations, seeking new breakthroughs, and engaging campus community input. She recognizes that tackling climate change requires partnerships with corporate allies, startups, government, communities, and other organizations.
Wang’s background in research and innovation is a testament to her ability to drive impact. As the director of ARPA-E, she supported early-stage R&D on energy generation, storage, and use. Her work at MIT has led to notable breakthroughs, including the development of an aerogel that improves window insulation and a device that extracts water from dry air.
With a deep connection to campus and strong sense of optimism, Wang is working to align MIT’s many existing climate efforts. She highlights the Institute’s unique strengths in research, innovation, and education as key drivers for change. “Optimism is the only way to go,” she says. “Yes, the world is challenged. But this is where MIT’s strengths can bring optimism to the table.”
Wang notes that her own experience, spanning over two decades at MIT, has given her a unique understanding of the Institute’s strengths and potential. As the Ford Professor of Engineering, she is well-equipped to lead the charge in addressing climate change and shaping a more sustainable future.
Source: https://news.mit.edu/2025/evelyn-wang-mit-new-energy-source-0626