TMU professor Daolun Chen elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada
Daolun Chen, a professor in the Department of Mechanical, Industrial, and Mechatronics Engineering at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), has been elected a 2025 Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada’s Academy of Science for his outstanding work advancing the understanding of lightweight materials used in transportation.
Established in 1882, the Royal Society of Canada recognizes the country’s leading scholars, artists and scientists through a competitive, peer-juried process.
“Our entire faculty celebrates this significant achievement,” said Sri Krishnan, dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science. “We are so proud to see professor Chen recognized for his commitment to advancing materials science and engineering, and for sharing his world-class knowledge with our students.”
A global expert in materials science, professor Chen specializes in investigating the mechanical behaviour, deformation, fatigue, fracture, welding, and joining of advanced materials. His work has significantly contributed to the development of safer, more durable lightweight materials that are used to build longer-lasting, more efficient automobiles and aircraft.
Among professor Chen’s most notable contributions is his role in creating the “Zhang and Chen method.” This groundbreaking model provides more accurate predictions about the strength of nanocomposites. These lightweight materials benefit the planet by reducing vehicle weight, which in turn lowers both energy consumption and carbon emissions.
Organizations, including General Motors and Magna International, have utilized professor Chen’s research to help predict the lifespan of critical components and to develop more durable materials and cost-effective processes.
“I am deeply honoured and grateful to be elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada,” professor Chen said. “This recognition is not mine alone; it is a shared achievement that reflects the incredible dedication of so many people who have been a part of my journey. I would like to extend my deepest thanks to my mentors, students, colleagues—including our technical officers—and research collaborators. Their support and contributions have been invaluable, and I share this honour with all of them.”
“I am delighted to congratulate professor Chen on this well-deserved recognition of his research excellence,” said Steven N. Liss, TMU’s vice-president, research and innovation. “His career has produced important work that has made a significant impact on the global transportation industry, increasing both safety and sustainability.”
Related links:
Sept. 4, 2025 - TMU professors honoured by the Royal Society of Canada.
Apr. 19, 2024 - Daolun Chen named 2023 Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.