David Pui, who was born in Shanghai, graduated from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree in 1970, a master’s degree in 1973, and a doctorate in 1976 in mechanical engineering. After graduation, Pui stayed at the University as a research associate in mechanical engineering, and in 1984, he became an assistant professor.

Pui is now a Regents Professor and L M Fingerson/TSI Chair in mechanical engineering. In addition, Pui is the director of the University of Minnesota’s Particle Technology Laboratory (PTL), one of the leading small particle research centers in the country, as well as the Center for Filtration Research (CFR). The CFR is regarded as the leading international center on air and water filtration; its members include companies such as 3M, Boeing, and Samsung Electronics.

He has a broad range of research experience in aerosol/ nanoparticle engineering and filtration technology and has over 350 journal papers and 40 patents. He has developed several widely used commercial aerosol instruments for PM_2.5 measurements around the world. He is also a co-founder of Nanocopoeia biopharmaceutical company for nano-medicine production. His recent contributions involve developing green technologies for sustainable environment, including two Solar-Assisted Large-Scale Cleaning Systems (SALSCS) built in Xi’an and Yancheng in China, and two Air Purification Towers now operating in Delhi, India to combat hazardous pollution problems.

In addition to his research engagement, Pui was the director of the China Center at the University of Minnesota from 1994 to 1998, promoting exchanges with Chinese academic institutions.

Read more about Pui's work on "smog towers"