Dr. Terrence Collins

Professor

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Biography

Terrence J. Collins is the Teresa Heinz Professor of Green Chemistry at Carnegie Mellon University and the Director of the Institute for Green Science. His research focuses on green chemistry, specifically in the areas of green oxidation catalysis and water purification. Collins has made significant contributions by designing catalysts that enhance the efficiency of natural oxidants like hydrogen peroxide. His work includes the development of TAML activators, which are remarkably effective at low concentrations for the degradation of environmental pollutants. Collins is particularly known for his innovative approaches in producing peroxidase mimics for various catalytic processes, which are applied to remove persistent environmental contaminants and enhance water treatment protocols. His educational commitment extends to training students in synthetic organic and inorganic chemistry while motivating them to engage in high-performance catalyst design. Collins has authored numerous publications in reputable journals, contributing valuable insights into the mechanisms of oxidation catalysis and the environmental impact of chemical processes.

Research Interests

Experience

Teresa Heinz Professor Green Chemistry

2010-01-01 — Present

Carnegie Mellon University • Pittsburgh, PA

Leading research and education in green chemistry.

Thomas Lord Professor Chemistry

2001-01-01 — 2010-01-01

Carnegie Mellon University • Pittsburgh, PA

Contributed to the advancement of chemical education and research.

Associate Professor Chemistry

1988-01-01 — 1992-01-01

Carnegie Mellon University • Pittsburgh, PA

Conducted research and taught courses in chemistry.

Assistant Professor Chemistry

1981-01-01 — 1987-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Engaged in research and mentoring graduate students.

Postdoctoral Fellow

1978-01-01 — 1980-01-01

Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Focused on advanced research in oxidation catalysis.

Awards

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Fast Company's World Changing Ideas Awards

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Environment Award

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Fellow

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Heinz Award

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Honorary Fellow

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Charles E. Kaufman Award

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Distinguished Alumnus Award

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Fellow

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Pittsburgh Award

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Outstanding Achievements

Requirements for Carnegie Mellon University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
GRE General
Verbal
Required:158
Quantitative
Required:149
Analytical Writing
Required:4
Overall
Required:4
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field Research experience/publications
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • GRE scores (optional but reported in profile)
  • English Proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo)
Specialization Notes

Admission is extremely competitive with no strict GPA cut-offs; holistic review is used.