Dr. James Loftus, Jim, is a native of Western PA and is a long time fan of Penn State.  He received his BS ('84), MS ('86), and PhD ('88), all in Polymer Science.  Jim's graduate work was under Dr. Bernard (Bronco) Gordon specializing in both monomer and polymer synthesis.  After his PhD work was complete, Jim found his way to South Charleston, WV, working in the areas of photolithography and surfactant synthesis under Dr. David Bassett.  In 1992 an opportunity arose in Granville, OH, working for Owens Corning in the area of fiberglass binders.  Since joining Owens Corning, Jim has enjoyed numerous positions in research and management.  Research positions have involved product and process development, binder chemistry, acoustics, and analytical chemistry.  Jim spent 1 year in R&D management and then 5 years involved in all aspects of environmental science and regulations in the Insulation Division of Owens Corning.  He rejoined R&D in 2003 and worked with polyester nonwovens in the area of acoustical product development.  In 2005 Jim became a Research Associate and is currently part of Owens Corning's Senior Technical Staff.