The University of Missouri-Kansas now has four administrators and professors who are fellows in the National Academy of Inventors, a prestigious group of innovative researchers.
The academy recently selected Mark Hoffman, Ph.D., UMKC School of Medicine pediatrics professor and chief research information officer at Children’s Mercy Kansas City, a clinical partner of the university, for induction into its 2024 Class of Fellows this June. This recognition is the highest professional distinction given exclusively to inventors, recognizing those who have shown exceptional innovation in developing or advancing groundbreaking inventions that have made a significant impact on quality of life, economic growth and societal well-being.
Throughout his nearly three-decade career, Hoffman has made significant contributions to the field of medical technology. As a distinguished inventor and researcher, his work has resulted in 22 U.S. patents and three international patents, underscoring his commitment to enhancing healthcare through innovative solutions.
“In fifth grade, I chose to do my first formal report on Thomas Edison, sparking my lifelong interest in invention,” Hoffman said. “Being elected as a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors is a humbling recognition of my career and I look forward to leading the ongoing, innovative work at Children’s Mercy.”
Hoffman is the first from Children’s Mercy to join this distinguished group of world-class innovators and leaders, and the fourth from UMKC. Previous winners from UMKC include:
- Chancellor Mauli Agrawal, Ph.D., Class of 2015
- Reza Derakhshani, Ph.D., associate dean in the School of Science and Engineering, Class of 2020
- Anthony Caruso, Ph.D., vice chancellor for strategic initiatives, Class of 2021
“I am grateful to Dr. Caruso for nominating me into this prestigious group,” Hoffman said.
Hoffman will be inducted at the 14th Annual NAI Conference held June 23 to 26 in Atlanta. During this ceremony, Hoffman and the other 170 exceptional inventors of the 2024 Class of Fellows will be presented with honors from NAI representatives and the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
According to NAI President Paul R. Sandberg, an election to the rank of fellow, “reflects not only your accomplishments but also your dedication to advancing technology and fostering invention for the benefit of society.”