IEEE Elects Wenyao Xu, Fellow
By Mylous Hairston
Published March 7, 2026
Wenyao Xu, professor and director of research in the University at Buffalo Department of Computer Science and Engineering, has been elected a fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
An IEEE Fellow is the institute’s highest honor. Fellows are recognized for their extraordinary accomplishments and significant contributions to engineering, science, and technology. Fewer than 0.1% of members are selected for the distinction annually.
“Being elected an IEEE Fellow is a deeply meaningful honor. It recognizes not only my own work, but also the collective efforts of my students, collaborators, and mentors over many years in mobile computing and smart health,” says Xu, who is both honored by the achievement and surprised by how early it comes in his career.
“To me, the fellowship is both a milestone and a responsibility — a reminder to continue pushing the boundaries of research, to translate technologies into real-world health impact, and to give back to the community through mentoring and service, ” he said.
Xu joined the University at Buffalo in 2013. His research focuses on AI-enabled sensing and smart health technologies, including wearable and mobile systems that support rehabilitation, hearing and speech health, and early detection of neurological conditions.
He has published over 300 publications, co-authored two book chapters, and he holds numerous patents. He is also a fellow of the International Academy of Artificial Intelligence Sciences.
Xu says that he is excited about the growing AI ecosystem at UB and how it dovetails with his future research plans. He adds, “I hope to contribute meaningfully to this momentum by advancing AI-powered health technologies that can move from the lab into clinics, schools and communities.”
Xu plans to help the university promote innovation across various disciplines and train the next generation of researchers and practitioners who will shape the future of health care.
