David's research interests are in the fundamental and applied studies of conventional free-radical and living radical polymerization and the synthesis of advanced functional materials which have applications in areas such as mitigation of water evaporation and nickel recovery from natural ores.

BSc (Hons.), N.S.W. University of Technology, 1952, DSc, University of N.S.W., 1968, PhD, N.S.W. University of Technology, 1959, DappSc (Honoris Causa), University of Melbourne, 2005, AM, FRS, FAA, FTSE, FRACI, FIChemE, Hon DApplSCI.

• NES Award for Novel Engineering Solutions 2007 (Institution of Chemical Engineers)
• Sellafield Award for Engineering Excellence, Highly Commended (Institution of Chemical Engineers)
• 2006 Victoria Prize
• Clunies Ross Science and Technology Award 1994
• Member of the Order of Australia 1990
• CSIRO Medal 1990
• Ian William Wark Medal and Lecture 1989 (Australian Academy of Science)
• The Australian Bicentennial Science Achievement Award 1988
• CSIRO Medal 1987
• Leighton Memorial Medal 1985 (Royal Australian Chemical Institute)
• Applied Research Medal 1980 (Royal Australian Chemical Institute)
• Polymer Medal 1978 (Royal Australian Chemical Institute)
• David Syme Research Prize 1976 (University of Melbourne)
• H.G. Smith Memorial Medal 1971 (Royal Australian Chemical Institute)
• Archibald D. Olle Prize 1968 (Royal Australian Chemical Institute)