Mark Schoenfisch

Mark Schoenfisch is the Peter A. Ornstein Distinguished Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, jointly appointed in the School of Medicine and School of Pharmacy. His research focuses on analytical sensors, biomaterials, and nanoparticle therapeutics, particularly leveraging nitric oxide (NO) for medical applications. Key projects include NO-releasing polymers for antibiotic-resistant infections, improved glucose monitoring devices, microfluidic sensors, and superhydrophobic coatings.

Education: B.A. from University of Kansas (1992), Ph.D. from University of Arizona (1997), followed by an NIH postdoc at the University of Michigan (1998-1999). He has received numerous awards, including the NSF CAREER Award (2004-2009) and teaching accolades like the Chapman Family Teaching Award (2015).

Research interests span interdisciplinary areas:

• Design of NO-releasing macromolecules for disease treatment
• Biomedical sensors for real-time diagnostics
• Antibacterial polymers and nanomedicines
• Superhydrophobic materials for mold prevention

His lab’s publications emphasize NO’s role in infection control, wound healing, and enhancing antibiotic efficacy. Recent work includes NO-liposomes for Mycobacterium abscessus and NO-releasing hydrogels for cancer therapy.

Grants and awards underscore his impact, including Eli Lilly Young Investigator (2002-2004) and Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh recognition (2001). The Schoenfisch Group collaborates across disciplines to translate materials innovations into clinical tools.