George M. Whitesides is an American chemist and professor of chemistry at Harvard University. George M. Whitesides was born August 3, 1939 in Louisville, KY. He received an A.B. degree from Harvard University in 1960 and a Ph.D. from the California Institute of Technology in 1964. He was a member of the faculty of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology from 1963 to 1982. Whitesides is the author of more than 950 research papers and holds over 50 patents. He has mentored more than 300 scientists who now hold influential positions in academia, industry, and government. Whitesides is the recipient of numerous awards, including the prestigious National Medal of Science (1998) and Priestley Medal (2007). Beyond his scientific research, Whitesides is also active in public service. He has participated in many evaluations addressing issues related to science and technology around the world.