Distinguished Engineer Citations

Rodney D. Priestley 

Distinguished Engineer

2024

Degree

Citation

At time of Nomination in 2023

Rodney D. Priestley is the Dean of the Graduate School at Princeton University. He is also the Pomeroy Betty Perry Smith Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and the Co-Director of the NSF I-Corps Hub. He is the former inaugural Vice Dean for Innovation at Princeton. 

Rodney's research integrates polymer physics and chemistry, colloidal and interfacial science, and chemical and materials processing to expand our understanding of polymer and soft matter nanoscience, including materials development and characterization. His group develops novel methods to investigate the physical chemistry of bulk and confined polymers to uncover new insights critical to predicting properties. Rodney's group also creates disruptive technologies exploiting the unique features of polymeric nanomaterials and interfacial phenomena. His recent interests include the use of polymers in sustainability and their implications on the environment. He has been recognized with several awards for his research and commitment to teaching and mentorship. 

Rodney intended to major in chemistry when he enrolled as a freshman in 1998. However, at the last minute, he switched to chemical engineering because he could engage with physics, chemistry, and mathematics. As a student-athlete, Rodney was a member of the Texas Tech University Track & Field team, where he competed in the long jump and triple trip. As a senior, Rodney received a Ronald E. McNair Scholarship, a U.S. Department of Education Program, allowing him to conduct polymer science research. 

Rodney earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Northwestern University in 2008, where he furthered his understanding and interest in polymer science. Following a brief postdoctoral fellowship at Ecole Superieure de Physique et de Chimie Industrielles de la Ville de Paris, Rodney started as an assistant professor in 2009 at Princeton University, where he has spent his entire career. 

Rodney has always been interested in broadening who participates in the research-innovation-entrepreneurship enterprise and advancing research and innovation through the seamless integration of inclusive principles and practices. He has developed or participated in several impactful programs to expand access and support the success of aspiring engineers and scientists. 

Rodney grew up in Houston, Texas, and credits his family's support for his accomplishments. Rodney is married and has two children; they enjoy traveling and spending time together.