Jonathan S. Colton

Dr. Jonathan S. Colton is the Eugene C. Gwaltney, Jr. Professor of Manufacturing and a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology. He joined Georgia Tech in 1985 as an Assistant Professor and has since contributed extensively to research in manufacturing, polymers, and humanitarian design. His work focuses on polymer composites, micro and nano engineering, and technologies for resource-limited environments. Dr. Colton has a strong record of innovation, reflected in over 20 patents and numerous awards, including the Jefferson Science Fellow (2013-2014) and the Woodruff School Outstanding Educator Award (2007).

Education:

• Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1986
• S.M., Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1982
• S.B., Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1981

Research Interests:

Dr. Colton’s research spans polymer processing (e.g., micro-molding, injection molding), metamaterials for electromagnetic applications, and humanitarian design for developing countries. He emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration to create sustainable, user-centric solutions. Recent projects include solar dryers, low-speed wind turbines for Africa, and agricultural machinery for Bangladesh.

Publications & Awards:

• Over 100 journal articles and 20 patents, including critical work on microcantilevers and composite manufacturing.
• Recognitions include fellowships from the Society of Plastics Engineers (2004), ASME (1999), and multiple teaching awards.

Advising & Grants:

Advised notable students like Andrew McFarland (2005 Best Ph.D. Thesis) and Anne Palmer (2000 Best M.S. Thesis). His grants and partnerships include work with NASA, WHO, and NGOs like The Global Soap Project.