Texas Tech University’s Xinzhong Chen Wins Prestigious Davenport Medal for Wind Engineering

Texas Tech University’s Xinzhong Chen has been awarded the 2024 Senior Award, also known as the Davenport Medal, by the International Association for Wind Engineering (IAWE).

Chen, a President’s Excellence in Research Professor in the Department of Civil, Environmental & Construction Engineering, was selected for his contributions to the field of aerodynamics of bridges and buildings through advanced analysis, modeling and simulation tools.

The most recent honor follows Chen receiving the Robert H. Scanlan Medal at the Engineering Mechanics Institute Conference in Chicago earlier this summer. Having also earned the Jack E. Cermak Medal in 2017, Chen is just the fourth scholar worldwide and the second from the U.S. to receive the top three recognitions in the field of wind engineering.

“These awards are a testament to the world-class work of Dr. Chen in the highly recognized wind engineering program here at Texas Tech,” said Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering Dean Roland Faller.
Davenport Medal

The Davenport Medal is named in honor of Alan G. Davenport, a pioneer in the field of wind engineering. Since its inception in 2007, the Davenport Medal has been awarded to 19 world-renowned scholars, making it one of the highest honors in wind engineering.

“The recognition of Dr. Chen’s contributions to wind engineering through these awards highlights his significant impact on the field and cements his legacy as a leading figure in wind engineering and industrial aerodynamics,” said Horn Distinguished Professor and wind engineering expert Kishor Mehta.

Chen is only the second winner of the Davenport Medal in the U.S.

“I am very proud and humbled to receive all three of the highest honors in wind engineering,” Chen said. “It is a profound recognition of my work and dedication to the field.”