Shekhar Garde

Shekhar Garde serves as the Thomas R. Farino Jr. ’67 and Patricia E. Farino Dean of the School of Engineering and the Elaine S. and Jack S. Parker Chaired Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He holds a B.Sc. from the University of Bombay (1992) and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Delaware (1997), followed by a director’s fellowship at Los Alamos National Labs (1997–1999). As department head (2007–2014) and dean since 2014, he has transformed the Chemical and Biological Engineering department through faculty recruitment, curriculum expansion, and student body growth. His research focuses on molecular-level phenomena, particularly the role of water in biological systems and hydrophobic interactions. Garde has published over 100 papers (12,500+ citations) and delivered 150 invited talks. Honors include the NSF CAREER Award, AAAS Fellowship, and leadership in the award-winning Molecularium Project educating children through digital media. He co-founded the NanoSpace website and the IMAX film Molecules to the MAX!, recognized with a 'Best of the Web' award.

His academic leadership includes establishing the Howard P. Isermann Department’s teaching awards and fellowships targeting underrepresented groups. Garde’s work spans interfacial science, nanotechnology, and educational outreach, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and societal impact.