Robert Clark

Robert Clark earned his doctorate in mechanical engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and joined Duke University's Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science in 1992. Over his 16 years at Duke, he significantly contributed to the institution's mission by founding the Center for Biologically Inspired Materials and Material Systems, which he developed into a multimillion-dollar program involving over two dozen faculty members. He also held the Thomas Lord Professorship of Engineering and served as Dean of the Pratt School of Engineering before moving to the University of Rochester. Currently in his fifth year as dean of the Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Clark is an expert in acoustics, dynamic systems, applied control, and bio-nano-manufacturing. His extensive research has resulted in 140 journal publications and numerous accolades, including the Lindsey Award from the Acoustical Society of America, the National Science Foundation Career Program Award, the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, and the NASA Group Achievement Award. Additionally, he is a fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Acoustical Society of America, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.