Biography

DeMarkus serves as a Laboratory Coordinator and Safety Officer at Howard University, where he supports the safe, efficient, and effective operation of academic and research laboratory environments. With a strong academic and professional foundation in chemical engineering, laboratory operations, environmental health and safety, and regulatory compliance, he brings a multidisciplinary perspective to supporting students, faculty, and research activities.

Prior to joining Howard University, DeMarkus gained experience with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where his work strengthened his knowledge of environmental regulations, chemical safety, risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and the application of scientific principles to protect human health and the environment. This experience directly supports his current responsibilities in promoting laboratory safety, identifying potential hazards, maintaining compliance, and helping establish safe practices for working with chemicals, equipment, and laboratory processes.

DeMarkus also previously served with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), where he evaluated complex scientific and engineering information, conducted technical research, reviewed detailed documentation, and applied established standards and procedures to technical subject matter. This experience strengthened his attention to detail, technical documentation, analytical problem-solving, and ability to interpret technical requirements—skills that are valuable in maintaining laboratory records, developing and reviewing safety procedures, coordinating laboratory activities, and supporting compliance within an academic environment.

His academic background in chemical engineering, including doctoral-level education and research, has provided extensive experience with laboratory experimentation, research methods, data analysis, scientific equipment, technical writing, and laboratory procedures. Having worked in academic laboratory environments himself, DeMarkus understands the importance of providing students and researchers with laboratories that are safe, organized, properly equipped, and conducive to hands-on learning and scientific discovery.

At Howard University, DeMarkus draws upon these experiences to coordinate laboratory operations, support instructional and research activities, maintain laboratory equipment and resources, promote regulatory and institutional compliance, and strengthen the culture of safety among students, faculty, and staff. Through his role, he is committed to creating laboratory environments that support academic excellence, responsible research, and the continued advancement of Howard University’s educational and research mission.