Nigerian-American Scientist John Dabiri Sits on NVIDIA Board That Accepted Jensen Huang’s Resignation

As global attention focuses on the resignation of NVIDIA founder and Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang, a Nigerian-American scientist serving on the technology giant’s board of directors has also attracted attention.

John Oluseun Dabiri, a distinguished professor of aeronautics and mechanical engineering at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), is among the directors of NVIDIA, whose board accepted Huang’s resignation as president and chief executive officer, effective immediately.

NVIDIA announced on November 12, 2026, that Huang had stepped down following the board’s decision. The company subsequently appointed its Chief Financial Officer, Colette Kress, as interim chief executive while it searches for a permanent successor.

Dabiri, who joined NVIDIA’s board in July 2020, is recognised internationally for his contributions to engineering, scientific research and innovation.

Born in Toledo, Ohio, in 1980 to Nigerian immigrant parents, Dabiri built an impressive academic career that took him from Princeton University to the California Institute of Technology, where he is currently a Centennial Professor of Aeronautics and Mechanical Engineering.

He graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University in 2001 with a degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering before obtaining a master’s degree in aeronautics in 2003 and a doctorate in bioengineering from Caltech in 2005.

At just 30, Dabiri received the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship in 2010, popularly known as the ‘Genius Grant’, in recognition of his innovative work in theoretical engineering.

His research explores the relationship between fluid mechanics, biology, energy and the environment, including how the movement of marine organisms such as jellyfish and fish can inspire more efficient wind energy technologies.

In January 2025, Dabiri received the National Medal of Science, one of the highest scientific honours in the United States, at a White House ceremony held on January 3.

The award recognised his outstanding contributions to aeronautical and biological engineering, particularly research that has advanced the development of more efficient wind turbines and sustainable energy systems.

His appointment to NVIDIA’s board in 2020 was announced by the company’s founder, Jensen Huang, who described him as an outstanding researcher and leader whose scientific expertise would bring valuable perspectives to the board.

Dabiri also serves on the board of trustees of the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and previously served on President Joe Biden’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.

While his presence on NVIDIA’s board does not establish his individual role in Huang’s departure, it highlights the international reach of Nigerian-origin professionals occupying influential positions in global technology and scientific institutions.

From Nigerian immigrant roots in Ohio to the boardroom of one of the world’s most valuable technology companies, Dabiri’s career represents a remarkable story of scientific achievement and global influence.