Mark Thompson

Mark Thompson, University Professor, Ray R. Irani, Chairman of Occidental Petroleum Corporation, Chair in Chemistry, and professor of chemistry, has been awarded a 2026 Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award by the American Chemical Society (ACS). The award recognizes excellence in organic chemistry and honors Thompson’s research on organic light-emitting materials, which led to the red and green emitters that power today’s OLED screens. His work has transformed display and lighting technologies — from smartphones to televisions — while opening new possibilities for sustainable energy applications. Thompson’s lab continues to advance the field by designing novel molecular systems, including copper-based compounds that offer eco-friendly alternatives to rare metals. As a Cope Scholar, he will be recognized at the ACS national meeting and contribute to the community of researchers shaping the future of organic chemistry.