David Salem

David Salem is a Full Professor at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, serving as Laboratory Director of the Composite and Polymer Engineering Laboratory since 2010 and leading the CNAM-Biomaterials Center launched in 2018.

His research spans polymer science, biopolymers, and advanced composites, focusing on process-structure-property relationships to develop sustainable materials for energy storage, protective applications, and agricultural bioproducts. He pioneers microbial biopolymer biosynthesis and bio-composite manufacturing techniques for industrial and environmental solutions.

Notable scientific awards include:

• Fiber Society Award for Distinguished Achievement in Fiber Science
• South Dakota Economic Development Award (2021)

Dr. Salem leads the BioWRAP initiative developing spray-on biopolymer films for agricultural soil cover, aiming to synchronize with crop cycles to suppress weeds, reduce herbicides, and enhance soil health through precision application using autonomous sprayers.

He directs the Composite and Polymer Engineering Laboratory and CNAM-Biomaterials Center, where interdisciplinary teams advance sustainable material systems for energy, agriculture, and industrial applications through cutting-edge processing and characterization methodologies.