Mark Heron

Mark Heron is a Professor in the Department of Physical and Life Sciences at the University of Huddersfield’s School of Applied Sciences. He directs the Chemical Synthesis and Design Centre and is an associate member of the Centre for Functional Materials and Technical Textiles Research Centre. His research focuses on heterocyclic chemistry applied to responsive dye systems, including photo-, thermo-, electro-, and piezo-chromic materials.

• PhD, Council for National Academic Awards (1992)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Central Lancashire (1991–1995)

Research interests include the synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of chromophores like BODIPY, naphthalimide, and ruthenium-based dyes, alongside sustainable chemistry aligned with UN SDGs. His work spans industrial collaborations and patent development in photochromic technologies.

Recent publications highlight advancements in naphthopyran coordination chemistry (2025), electrochromic devices (2024), and chromene derivative design (2022). Key themes include molecular optoelectronics, heterocyclic synthesis, and material innovation.

Activities include grant peer-review (Poland, Hong Kong), conference organization (International Symposium on Dyes & Pigments), and expert evaluation for Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships (2018). He supervises PhD projects and maintains a network in dye chemistry and sustainable materials.