WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (Diya TV) — Purdue University has appointed Indian-origin scholar Rao S. Govindaraju as the next vice president for Institutes and Centers at Discovery Park District, beginning January 2026. Govindaraju, a longtime Purdue faculty member and leader in civil engineering, will report to Dan DeLaurentis, Purdue’s executive vice president for research.
Govindaraju currently serves as the Bowen Engineering Head of Civil Engineering and the Christopher B. and Susan S. Burke Distinguished Professor of Civil Engineering at Purdue. With more than 25 years at the university, he has played a key role in advancing research and education in civil and environmental engineering.
As vice president, Govindaraju will guide the continued growth of Discovery Park District, a hub for research, innovation, and industry collaboration. His leadership will focus on expanding the district’s state-of-the-art facilities, promoting cross-disciplinary partnerships, and driving research that aligns with Purdue’s top priorities.
DeLaurentis said Govindaraju’s background makes him the ideal choice for this strategic position.
“Professor Govindaraju’s experience and vision will be instrumental in developing and advancing strategic partnerships that strengthen Purdue’s leadership and support key national initiatives,” DeLaurentis said. “We are proud to welcome him to this important role.”
In his new role, Govindaraju will work to enhance coordination among Purdue’s many research centers and institutes. He will introduce incentive-based budgeting to improve efficiency and financial sustainability. He also plans to collaborate with center directors to create new revenue streams and promote innovation-driven growth.
Govindaraju’s appointment reflects Purdue’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across science, engineering, and technology. The Discovery Park District—located next to Purdue’s main campus—is one of the nation’s leading university-based innovation communities. It connects academia with startups, established companies, and federal research agencies to address pressing global challenges.
Govindaraju joined Purdue University in 1997 and has led the Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering since 2012. Under his leadership, the school strengthened its academic programs, expanded industry partnerships, and earned recognition for research excellence.
His research focuses on surface and subsurface hydrology, contaminant transport, watershed management, and the impacts of climate change on water systems. His work helps improve how communities manage water resources and respond to environmental changes.
Govindaraju’s research has received major funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Department of Energy (DOE). He has earned several national and international honors and served on influential scientific committees.
Born and educated in India, Govindaraju completed his Bachelor of Technology in civil engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). He earned a Master of Science from the University of Kentucky and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Davis, both in civil engineering.
His academic journey across three continents reflects his global perspective and commitment to advancing research that benefits society. Colleagues describe him as a visionary scholar with deep technical expertise and a collaborative spirit.
