TEACHING INTERESTS Dr. Marx is continually seeking to improve his teaching methods to reach both non-scientists and future physicists alike. He was written several teaching supplements that are used by instructors all over the United States for both algebra-based and calculus-based introductory physics courses. He believes that courses should be taught as interactively as possible; and thus, was an early adopter and promoter of the clicker technology at Illinois State University. He is the recipient of the University Teaching Initiative Award, CAS Dean's Award for Teaching (Honorable Mention), and the Student Teacher's Association Teaching Excellence Award. RESEARCH INTERESTS Dr. Marx is an experimental solid state physicist. His research program generally includes the synthesis and characterization of bulk, thin film, and nanocrystalline materials. Characterization includes structural, electrical, and thermal properties. Dr. Marx is currently focused on energy conversion devices including photovoltaics and thermoelectrics, particularly those incorporating novel nanoscale technologies.