Polymer Scientist Todd Emrick Named to National Academy of Inventors

The National Academy of Inventors this week named Todd Emrick, polymer science and engineering, a fellow of the academy, which seeks to recognize the fellows’ “prolific spirit of innovation in creating or facilitating outstanding inventions that have made a tangible impact on quality of life, economic development and the welfare of society.”

Emphasizing the synthesis of new materials in his research laboratory over the past 13 years, Emrick has developed new polymer surfactants, self-healing polymers, nanoparticles and nanoparticle capsules, membrane technology for water desalination and purification, polymeric flame-retardants and new materials for drug delivery.

Mike Malone, vice chancellor for research and engagement, says the high professional distinction of being named an NAI Fellow “is a significant accomplishment, and Todd is deservedly in good company with national leaders in science and engineering who are also inventors of new technologies. As an inventor, Todd has been very prolific with over 15 patents, six of which have been licensed to industry. As important, as an advisor and mentor Todd has helped to guide the careers of 42 former students and postdocs who have gone on to contribute to the advancement of science and industry in universities and companies around the world.”

NAI says the new fellows include 26 presidents and senior leaders of research universities and non-profit research institutes, 69 members of the National Academies of Science, five members of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, six recipients of the U.S. National Medal of Technology and Innovation, two recipients of the U.S. National Medal of Science and nine Nobel laureates. Together, its 143 fellows hold more than 5,600 U.S. patents.

Andy Faile, deputy U.S. commissioner for patents, will officially induct Emrick and the other new fellows into NAI during its third annual conference next March in Alexandria, Va., at the headquarters of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Each will receive a trophy and a rosette pin.

In addition to this week’s honor, Emrick, who is the director of the National Science Foundation-supported UMass Materials Research Science and Engineering Center on Polymers, received the 2013 Landmark Award from the Commercial Ventures and Intellectual Property office for its 10th awarded patent and its 2010 Milestone Award for the 5th awarded patent. He also served as the chair of the 2011 Macromolecular Materials Gordon Research Conference.

Source: UMass News & Media Relations

National Academy of Inventors