Mark Shroyer

Mark Shroyer is an Associate Professor of Physics at Knox College, where he has been a faculty member since 2005. His career bridges cutting-edge research in magnetic materials and semiconductor defects with dedicated undergraduate teaching and mentorship across the physics curriculum.

Professor Shroyer's educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Physics from Oregon State University (1999)
• M.S. in Physics from Oregon State University (1995)
• B.S. in Physics from Truman State University (1993)

His research program centers on two interconnected domains: magnetic characterization of novel metal complexes using susceptibility measurements to probe spin states and magnetic interactions, and investigation of bistable defects in semiconductors like CdTe:Ga that exhibit persistent photoconductivity. This work leverages advanced techniques including SQUID magnetometry and Nuclear Quadrupole Double Resonance Spectroscopy, with instrumentation specifically adapted for undergraduate participation.

Professor Shroyer's research has yielded publications spanning magnetic materials science, semiconductor defect physics, and advanced instrumentation development. His work demonstrates consistent focus on experimentally accessible problems suitable for undergraduate researchers, with publications appearing in journals including Journal of Chemical Crystallography, Review of Scientific Instruments, and Physical Review B.

Research support includes:

• National Science Foundation Major Research Instrumentation Grant (2014, $292,100) for 400MHz spectrometer
• Knox Faculty Research Grant (2014, $5,088) for SQUID magnetization studies

Professor Shroyer maintains an exceptionally active undergraduate research program where physics students operate advanced instrumentation while chemistry collaborators synthesize novel compounds. His mentorship philosophy emphasizes accessibility—students consistently note his availability 'at nearly any hour'—and pride in student achievements. Beyond research, he contributes to campus life as instructor for Knox College for Kids, WYSE competition coordinator, and assistant basketball coach, demonstrating holistic commitment to student development.

The research environment features state-of-the-art equipment including SQUID magnetometers and NMR spectrometers, creating an interdisciplinary hub where physics and chemistry students collaborate on projects spanning materials synthesis to advanced characterization techniques.