Dr. Mark D. Soucek is a Professor and Interim Director at the School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering at the University of Akron. With over 140 publications in coating science, his work spans UV-curable systems, hybrid organic-inorganic coatings, and sustainable polymer technologies. Previously held positions include: NASA Langley Research Center (1990-1993) North Dakota State University (1993-2001) University of Akron (2001-present) Education : Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin (1990) M.S. in Organic Chemistry, Illinois State University (1986) B.S. in Chemistry, Eastern Illinois University (1983) Research Focus : Developing environmentally benign coatings through nanotechnology and bio-based materials. Specializes in crosslinked systems including UV-curable, thermosetting powder, and hybrid coatings with enhanced properties like corrosion resistance and self-healing capabilities. Current projects emphasize creating a UV-Curable Powder Coatings Research Center for industrial collaboration. Scientific Contributions span 25+ years of coating innovations, with recent emphasis on: Seed oil-based reactive diluents Smart corrosion-inhibiting coatings Hybrid inorganic/organic systems Photopolymerization kinetics Awards & Roles : Sundar L. Aggarwal Endowed Professor Cleveland Coating Society President (2009) Grants include: Industry/University Cooperative Research Center in Coatings (1995-2001) UV-Curable Epoxidized Linseed Oil Based Coatings (2002-2005)






