David M. Collard

David M. Collard is a Professor and Senior Associate Dean in the College of Sciences at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he has served in the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry since 1991.

His academic credentials include a B.Sc. (Hons.) from the University of East Anglia (U.K., 1983), a Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst (1989) under Professor C. Peter Lillya, and postdoctoral research at the University of Texas at Austin (1989-91) with Professor Mary Anne Fox.

Professor Collard's research centers on molecular self-assembly in polymers to create novel supermolecular architectures with applications in sensors, displays, and microelectronics. His group investigates conjugated conducting polymers (e.g., polythiophene), functional copolyesters (including PET modifications), surfactants, self-assembled monolayers, and liquid crystals using synthesis, electrochemistry, thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction, and microscopy. He also pioneers chemical education initiatives focused on experiential learning and broadening participation in research careers.

His distinguished honors include:

• NSF CAREER Award (1995)
• Research Corporation Cottrell Scholarship (1994)
• Dreyfus Foundation New Faculty Award (1991)
• Georgia Tech Professional Education Award (2011)
• Howard Ector Outstanding Teacher Award (2009)
• Eichholz Award (2008)
• Ph.D. Advisor Award (2005)
• Lilly Foundation Fellowship
• University System of Georgia Hall of Fame Faculty Award

Professor Collard directed the NSF-sponsored Chemistry Collaborations, Workshops and Communities of Scholars (cCWCS) program (2002-2018), providing professional development for over 3,000 chemistry faculty. He currently leads Georgia Tech's Howard Hughes Medical Institute Inclusive Excellence program, supported by NSF, U.S. Department of Education, Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation, and 3MGives grants, to advance inclusive teaching practices and diversify chemistry careers.

He heads the Collard Research Group, which develops new conjugated organic materials and biomaterials while optimizing polymer properties for industrial applications.