Group Leader
Dr. Andre Z. Clayborne is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry and Interim Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs in the College of Science at George Mason University. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Physics from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2009 and completed postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Jyväskylä (Finland), Argonne National Laboratory, and Kansas State University. Prior to joining George Mason University in 2020, he held faculty positions at the University of Missouri–Kansas City and Howard University. Dr. Clayborne leads a dynamic research program that applies quantum chemistry and theoretical methods to investigate the structural, electronic, and electrochemical properties of molecules and nanoparticles, with the overarching goal of accelerating materials discovery. His work has been supported by national and international funding agencies, including the U.S. National Science Foundation, the Academy of Finland, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. A strong advocate for science and professional mentorship, Dr. Clayborne has mentored students and professionals across academia, industry, and government worldwide. He is recognized for his collaborative spirit, innovative approach, and passion for advancing education in chemistry and physics through the lens of chemical intuition.