Newell R. Washburn

Newell R. Washburn is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biomedical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University, with a courtesy appointment in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. His research integrates materials chemistry, sustainability, and machine learning to develop novel materials with reduced environmental impact.

• Ph.D., Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley (1998)
• B.S., Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (1993)

His research emphasizes the development of biobased polyurethane elastomers from renewable resources like lignin, sustainable cement (LC3), and hierarchical machine learning algorithms for small datasets. He explores structure-function relationships and technological applications in non-fouling interfaces for medical diagnostics, metal recovery adsorbents, and conducting-polymer binders for batteries.

Washburn’s recent publications highlight his work on integrating domain knowledge into machine learning models, optimizing polymer formulations using data science, and advancing sustainable materials through physicochemical and computational approaches. His group trains students in both laboratory techniques and data science.

• Covestro Global Science Award (2020)
• Coulter Foundation Translational Research Award (2010)
• 3M Non-Tenured Faculty Grant (2005)

During his sabbatical (2020s), he collaborated with Covestro LLC to refine a hierarchical machine learning methodology for polymer formulation, reducing trial-and-error cycles in industrial applications. His lab fosters interdisciplinary expertise, preparing students for challenges in materials sustainability and innovation.