A Rare International Honour: Professor Georgakis Receives Prestigious Medal

Professor Christos Georgakis has just received the prestigious Robert H. Scanlan Medal for his contributions to wind engineering and aerodynamics.

Last week he accepted the medal that recognises exceptional mechanicians for their achievements and impact on the field.

Christos Georgakis is being honoured for his pioneering work in bridge aerodynamics and design, delivering practical solutions that have improved the design and safety of major bridges around the world.

“I am both honoured and humbled,” he says.

“I am proud to see that the research I have done over the years is being implemented around the world, contributing to safer and more resilient infrastructure.”

“This achievement also reflects the many talented students and colleagues I have had the privilege of working with.”

He was selected by the Engineering Mechanics Institute of the American Society of Civil Engineers, which represents more than 160,000 civil engineers across 177 countries.

Christos Georgakis is Head of Section and Professor of Structural Dynamics and Monitoring at the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering.

Underlines the department’s international leadership

The honour is highly appreciated by Søren Wandahl, Head of Department.

“It is a well-deserved recognition of his excellence, impact, and dedication to the field,” he says.

“Christos’ achievement underlines the department’s international leadership in structural engineering research and its ability to translate research into safer, more sustainable, and resilient infrastructure.”

Christos Georgakis was also recognised for his dedication to educating and mentoring the next generation of bridge engineers.

“Teaching and mentoring are a major part of my work, and I take great pride in that,” he says.

“Our research-based degree programmes produce outstanding graduates. We educate engineers with both cutting-edge academic knowledge and strong practical skills.”

Georgakis highlights his book Cable Supported Bridges as a good example of — and an important link between — research and teaching.

“It is regarded as a leading textbook in its field. I am proud that it is used not only in our own teaching but also at other universities.”

“It helps ensure a high level of academic knowledge among our students.”

To develop new technologies and intelligent solutions for the future, society needs engineering specialists with highly specialised knowledge and expertise, Georgakis adds.

“And that is precisely what we help to develop here,” he says.

“We may be a small department in a small country, but our research has a significant global impact.”

Young but influential department

Christos Georgakis joined the department in Aarhus ten years ago.

“It was—and remains—a young department, and it has been exciting to follow its development and contribute to its growth. It has been a unique opportunity to help build an exceptional research environment.”

He points to the department’s strong research culture and collaborative spirit as key strengths.

“Excellent researchers, dedicated academic staff and inspiring colleagues make this a great environment to be part of.”

“Our goal is to develop new technologies that improve the safety and resilience of critical infrastructure while also enhancing quality of life and supporting a more sustainable society.”

“We have made strong progress so far, and we will continue to do so.”