Bioengineer David Mooney honored with mentoring award

David J. Mooney, Robert P. Pinkas Family Professor of Bioengineering, was honored with the Capers and Marion McDonald Award for Excellence in Mentoring and Advising at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS).

“Dave Mooney is a world-class scientist and researcher, a superb teacher, and an exemplary mentor—to students and colleagues alike,” said SEAS Dean Cherry A. Murray.

Established at SEAS in 2008 by Capers W. McDonald and Marion K. McDonald, the award recognizes leaders in engineering and applied sciences “who, as exemplary mentors and advisors, have significantly and consistently supported the personal and professional development of others.”

Nominated by his graduate students, researchers, and support staff, Mooney was recognized for his selfless commitment to advancing the personal and professional development of those in his tight-knit laboratory community.

“Dave strives to create an environment for learning and research in his lab where everyone will feel comfortable, respected, and valued,” said one former student. “It is telling that lab alumni often maintain connections with the lab and view other ‘Mooniacs’ … as a sort of extended family, even if their time in the lab never overlapped.”