Darsh Wasan

Darsh Wasan has worked as a researcher and administrator at IIT in Chicago since 1964. In 2004, he was elected into the National Academy of Engineering for his pioneering research, inspirational teaching, and the development of novel technology in colloidal processing and interfacial rheology. One of his discoveries, published in Nature in 2003, led to innovative new techniques for oil recovery. He also found ways to use silica dioxide to clean surfaces, including the surfaces of semiconductors. His colloid research also touches on food safety issues. In addition to his research, Wasan has chaired IIT’s chemical engineering department and served in a number of administrative positions, including vice president of research and technology, and vice president for academic affairs. He received a College of LAS Alumni Achievement Award in 2015.