David Ewins
David Ewins is internationally recognized as a pioneer in the field of modern structural dynamics, who was active in the field for over fifty years when he died in 2023. He was the advisor of over 54 PhD students, many of whom are still active contributors to SEM, authored 400+ papers, led several international research collaborations and published the well-known book, “Modal Testing” in 1982 (2nd Edition in 2000) which has been a valuable resource for several generations of researchers in structural dynamics. His research contributions include the nonlinear mechanics of joints, continuous-scan laser Doppler vibrometry, dynamic substructuring, dynamic environmental testing and he was instrumental in establishing the Committee on Joint Mechanics and the Los Alamos Dynamics Summer School. David brought a tremendous energy for research and a zest for life that motivated all who surrounded him.
The David Ewins Award, established in 2025, recognizes mid- or late-career individuals who have made outstanding research contributions to the field of experimental and analytical structural dynamics. The award citation reads "for outstanding research accomplishments in structural dynamics."
The individual selected should have a distinguished record of research in the field of structural dynamics and demonstrated activity in SEM. Their contributions may pertain to experimental, analytical or numerical aspects of structural dynamics, although the intent of the award is to recognize researchers who carry on David Ewins’ legacy and that should be taken into account.