About Us > Profile Archives> Rita Colwell

Dr. Rita R. Colwell Tel: (301) 405-5142 Fax: (301) 314-6654 E-mail : rcolwellatumiacs.umd.edu (replace at with @) Web : www.umiacs.umd.edu

Current Position and Title:
Dr. Rita Colwell is distinguished University Professor, University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins University; she is also Chairman of Canon US Life Sciences, Inc.

Education:
B.S., Bacteriology, Purdue Univ.;
M.S., Genetics, Purdue Univ.;
Ph.D., Oceanography, Univ. Washington, Seattle

Professional Interests:
Molecular microbial ecology:
Her interests are focused on global infectious diseases, water, and health, and she is currently developing an international network to address emerging infectious diseases and water issues, including safe drinking water for both the developed and developing world.

Most Satisfying Achievements/Awards to Date:
Most satisfying was an enjoyable term of office as Director of the National Science Foundation 1998-2004.

OtherAchievements: Dr. Colwell is a nationally-respected scientist and educator, and has authored or co-authored 16 books and more than 700 scientific publications. She produced the award-winning film, Invisible Seas, and has served on editorial boards of numerous scientific journals.

Dr. Colwell served as the 11th Director of the National Science Foundation, 1998-2004. Before going to NSF, Dr. Colwell was President of the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute. She has served as President of several professional associations and held many advisory positions in national and international organizations.

Awards: Dr. Colwell has been awarded 43 honorary degrees from institutions of higher education, including her Alma Mater, Purdue University. She is an honorary member of the microbiological societies of the UK, France, Israel, Bangladesh, and the U.S. and has held several honorary professorships.

A geological site in Antarctica, Colwell Massif, has been named in recognition of her work in the polar regions.

Family and Personal Interests/Activities:
She enjoys sports (sailing and jogging)

Her major interests include K-12 science and mathematics education, graduate science and engineering education and the increased participation of women and minorities in science and engineering.

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