Dr. Mark D. Zoback is the Benjamin M. Page Professor of Earth Sciences, Emeritus at Stanford University, where he served as a distinguished faculty member for nearly four decades. After earning his bachelor's degree in Geophysics from the University of Arizona in 1969, he continued his academic journey at Stanford University, completing both his master's and doctoral degrees in Geophysics in 1973 and 1975 respectively. His early career included positions as a Geophysicist at Amoco Production Company and with the U.S. Geological Survey before he joined Stanford's faculty. During his tenure at Stanford, he held significant leadership roles including Chairman of the Department of Geophysics from 1991 to 1997 and Chair of the Faculty Senate from 2012 to 2013. He also served as Senior Fellow at the Precourt Institute for Energy and established multiple research centers focused on critical energy and environmental challenges.
Dr. Zoback's pioneering research has fundamentally advanced the understanding of in situ stress, fault mechanics, and reservoir geomechanics with profound implications for energy production and environmental sustainability. His work on induced and triggered seismicity has provided critical insights for the safe development of unconventional energy resources including shale gas, tight gas, and tight oil production, addressing major industry challenges while considering environmental impacts. His leadership in carbon storage research has established foundational principles for the secure geological sequestration of carbon dioxide, contributing significantly to climate change mitigation strategies. This research has been instrumental in shaping regulatory frameworks and industry practices worldwide, with his expertise sought by government agencies and energy companies for developing science-based approaches to subsurface energy resource management. His scientific contributions have been widely recognized through numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout his distinguished career.
Beyond his research contributions, Dr. Zoback has played a pivotal role in shaping energy policy through his service on the Secretary of Energy Subcommittee on shale gas development and the National Academy of Engineering Committee that investigated the Deepwater Horizon accident. He founded and directed the Stanford Natural Gas Initiative and co-founded the Stanford Centers for Induced and Triggered Seismicity and Carbon Storage, creating interdisciplinary hubs that continue to advance knowledge in these critical areas. His leadership extends to professional societies where he has served as President of the American Rock Mechanics Association and received the Society of Exploration Geophysicists' highest honor, the Maurice Ewing medal in 2024. Dr. Zoback has also been recognized with the Robert R. Berg Outstanding Research Award of the AAPG in 2015 and election to the U.S. National Academy of Engineering in 2011. Dr. Zoback continues to influence the field through his ongoing research, mentorship of emerging scientists, and active participation in advancing sustainable energy solutions that balance resource development with environmental stewardship.
