Rate My Professor Dong Chen

Dong Chen is Professor of Civil Engineering in the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University Fort Wayne, previously Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne. A Ph.D. holder and licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.), he specializes in environmental engineering with research focused on water filtration membrane processes, aqueous chemistry, water and wastewater treatment, sonochemistry, photooxidation, and corrosion science. As Director of the Argast Family Imaging and Analysis Laboratories, also known as the Scanning Electron Microscope Laboratory, Dr. Chen oversees advanced imaging and materials analysis facilities that support research across engineering disciplines and provide hands-on training for students. His laboratory contributions enhance microscopic characterization critical for studies in materials science and engineering applications.

Dr. Chen's distinguished career at the institution includes significant leadership roles, such as Faculty Senate representative for the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering (2025-28 term) and Past President of the Purdue Fort Wayne Sigma Xi chapter (2022-23). He has earned prestigious honors recognizing his research and teaching excellence, including the Purdue Fort Wayne 2018–19 Outstanding Research Award, the IPFW Sigma Xi Researcher of the Year Award in Engineering (presented at the 2012 banquet), and the 2017 IPFW Sigma Xi College Science Teacher of the Year award. Additionally, he secured a major research grant of $649,998 from Scholars at IPFW for the project 'Enzymatic Treatment of Alginate to Reduce Membrane Fouling,' addressing challenges in water treatment technologies. Key publications include 'A Corrosion Sensor for Monitoring the Early-Stage Localized Corrosion of 304 Stainless Steel in High Temperature and Pressure Saline Water' (2014, Sensors journal). Through his scholarly work, grants, and service, Dr. Chen has impacted corrosion science, sustainable water management, and engineering education, fostering advancements in civil and environmental engineering fields.