Bruce M. Novak

Dr. Bruce M. Novak is a Professor of Chemistry and holder of the Francis S. and Maurine G. Johnson Chair at The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas), School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. He served as Dean of the School for eight years after joining UT Dallas in 2011. Previously, he held positions as a Distinguished University Professor at North Carolina State University (1998-2011) and faculty roles at the University of Massachusetts and UC Berkeley.

His educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Science, summa cum laude, California State University, Northridge (1983)
• Master of Science in Chemistry, California State University, Northridge
• Doctor of Philosophy, California Institute of Technology (1989)

Dr. Novak's research focuses on advanced polymer chemistry and materials science, with specific projects in macromolecular chirality, optical switches, and molecular machines. His interdisciplinary work bridges synthetic chemistry, nanotechnology, and functional materials development to create novel molecular systems.

Notable scientific recognitions include:

• ACS Carl S. Marvel Creative Polymer Chemistry Award
• Multiple "most-loved professor" selections at North Carolina State University
• Distinguished University Professor designation during his tenure at NC State

He is recognized for his passionate commitment to teaching complex scientific concepts accessibly and his belief in higher education's transformative role in societal progress. Before academia, he served five years in the U.S. Army.

Outside research, Dr. Novak pursues technical scuba diving with specialization in deep-water wreck exploration.