After graduating from Bristol University in 1956 with a degree in Physics, John Mark continued his studies at the Mid-Essex Technical College, now part of Anglia Ruskin's Chelmsford campus. Qualifying for his Institute of Electrical Engineers professional membership, he went on to pursue his career with the GEC Marconi Group. Throughout his career he was based chiefly at the Marconi Research Centre in Chelmsford, performing research into microwave tracking and surveillance antennae. He was Manager of the Radar Research Laboratory until 1988 when he was appointed Technical Director of Marconi Radar Systems. He strongly believed in the benefits of developing links between industry and education, and did a great deal to promote the advancement of technology education and training at our University.
In 1994 John Mark was made an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy.
"John Richard Mark graduated in Physics from Bristol University in 1956 and has worked within the GEC Marconi group since that date. Indeed, after graduation he gained his Institute of Electrical Engineers professional membership by studying at Mid-Essex Technical College, the buildings of which now form part of the Chelmsford campus of the University.
From 1966 until 1998 he had a distinguished career in the Marconi Research Centre here in Chelmsford, concentrating on research into microwave tracking and surveillance antennae. In the latter part of that period, from 1981-88, he was Manager of the Radar Research laboratory in the Centre.
Since 1988 John Mark has been the Technical Director of Marconi Radar Systems, responsible for the direction of the firm's long term development activities.
He has been a great supporter of the development of technological education and training in Anglia and has done much to foster the valued and still growing partnership between GEC Marconi and the University. It is in recognition of this work and support that the University is pleased to present John Richard Mark with an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy."