John M. Torkelson

John M. Torkelson is the Walter P. Murphy Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering at Northwestern University, affiliated with the Robert R. McCormick School of Engineering. His research focuses on sustainable polymers, nanocomposites, and novel solid-state processing techniques to enhance material recyclability and performance. Torkelson holds a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota and a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin.

His research interests span sustainable and recyclable polymers, nanoscience of polymers, and solid-state processing. He has pioneered dynamic covalent chemistry approaches for reprocessable polymer networks, enabling recycling of thermosets and crosslinked polymers. His work includes developing alkoxyamine-based crosslinking for tires, polyhydroxyurethanes, and polythiourethanes with high recovery efficiency.

Key achievements include over 200 publications and prestigious awards like the Charles Deering McCormick Professor of Teaching Excellence (2012) and Fellow of the American Physical Society (1999). He has advised over 50 doctoral and master's students, many of whom hold leadership roles in academia and industry.

His professional service includes directing the Materials Research Center (2003–2006) and serving as Associate Dean for Graduate Studies (1997–2002). Current research explores biobased polymers, chemical recycling, and functional polymer networks for applications in energy and sustainability.