Born in Pune, India, Dr. Shiv Dhar joined South College as an adjunct instructor for General Chemistry, in August 2004. He became a full time instructor in October 2005. Dr. Shiv Dhar graduated with a Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry from the University of Pune, India in 1985, and earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry, from the same University, in 1993.

Dr. Dhar worked as a scientist and senior project manager at the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), in India, from May 1985 until April 2004. His research focused on development and application of high-energy materials to gun and rocket propellants and the combustion mechanism of composite modified double base solid rocket propellants. He brings in a total of 18 years of strong analytical, creative thinking, training, mentoring, and managerial and research experience in basic and applied science and technology, to the classroom.

Dr. Dhar maintains membership in the National Science Teachers Association, American Chemical Society and is a life member of the High Energy Materials Society of India. Dr. Dhar has co-authored publications in international journals in his field of research. He is also a member of several committees at South College and was presented with the Distinguished Teaching Award for 2006 for his outstanding classroom effectiveness, professionalism and dedication. He was awarded the Junior Research Fellowship Award by the Government of India to conduct research on electrochemical synthesis and a commendation certificate from the Government of India, Defense R&D Organization, for his significant contributions to the Integrated Guided Missiles Development Program.