Donovan Thompson
PHD Chemistry '14 | Prairieville, LA
TITLE: Research and Technology Manager
COMPANY: Albemarle Corporation
INDUSTRY: Engineering
Dr. Donovan Thompson is a 2014 graduate of University of Florida (UF). He did research under the guidance in the Butler Polymer Research Laboratory under Professor Kenneth Wagener. Dr. Thompson has over 20+ publications, scientific presentations, patents and (patent applications), and 3 commercial products. He is an author of the book called: The Periodik Change in Me= U! He was a dissertation fellow of Florida Education-McKnight Award; along with being an awardee of: Colgate-Palmolive and SMART Science Awards, Agape Family Church (NJ) “2016 Men Who Rock” Award, AkzoNobel 2017 Early Career Scientist Award, Georgia Southern University 40 under 40 Class of 2018, 2019 Kappa Alpha Psi New Brunswick Alumni (NBA) President’s Award, 2020 New Brunswick (NJ) Alumni Mentorship Service Award, Albemarle Corporation 2021 Global New technology Award, and 2023 Albemarle Corporation Mosaic Leadership award.
Currently, he is a Sr. Research Technology Manager at Albemarle Corporation where he led the commercialization of New Products in Food Safety and Oilfield businesses and he is also the Albemarle Foundation Director for the Baton Rouge, LA region. Thus far, he has grown the technical capability footprint for new product development and created a “Play-to-Win” strategy for entering new chemical markets. His foundation leadership is where he drives the continuous improvement of charitable dollars and establishing new partnerships with local partners. He travels to speak to collegiate and non-profit organizations such as UF, GSU, and Savannah State University chemistry departments on STEM career initiatives; along with being a mentor for the Kappa League under the umbrella of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated. Outside of that, he is a Board Member for a local non-profit organization: You Aren’t Alone Project where its focus is on mental health initiatives for the capital city of Louisiana, and he is a Board Member of the University of Florida Chemistry Leadership Board.
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