University of New Orleans professor Lothar Birk is the 2024 recipient of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers’ William H. Webb Medal for outstanding contributions to education in naval architecture, marine or ocean engineering. Birk, who joined UNO in 2004, is a professor and undergraduate program coordinator in the Boysie Bollinger School of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering.  

“Dr. Birk has had an amazing career that has contributed to the education of naval architecture and marine engineering through excellence in teaching, research and service,” said Lizette Chevalier, dean of the Dr. Robert A. Savoie College of Engineering. “I have watched him with students, representatives from local industries, alumni, and other faculty. He demonstrates respect, is willing to give his time, and communicates with the authority of an accomplished educator. He is able to present complex concepts to any audience.”  

Birk teaches classes in ship hydrodynamics, offshore engineering, dynamics of ships and offshore structures, and computer aided design, among others. His areas of research include hull design, hydrodynamic shape optimization, and design assessment. Birk has presented his research in more than 50 reports, conferences, journal papers and book chapters. He’s also published a textbook on ship hydrodynamics. 

The Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME) is an international professional society of more than 4,000 members in 95 countries serving the maritime and offshore industries and their suppliers. It was organized in 1893 to advance the art, science and practice of naval architecture, shipbuilding and marine engineering.

The Webb Medal was established in 1987 by SNAME in honor of William H. Webb. Born into a shipbuilding family, Webb was a highly successful shipbuilder, shipowner and educator whose contributions to the marine profession and commitment to the education of naval architects, marine engineers, and shipbuilders took shape in “Webb’s Academy and Home for Shipbuilders,” now known as Webb Institute.