About R. Marshall Pope
Experience That Matters: With over 435 years in analytical chemistry and bioanalytical science, I bring a unique perspective to local governance—one grounded in data, evidence, and rigorous process management.
I understand how to evaluate complex systems, identify inefficiencies, and implement solutions that actually work. That's the kind of expertise Coralville needs on its City Council.
Professional Background
Director of Proteomics, University of Iowa - Retired
Leading advanced research in protein analysis and bioanalytical chemistry. Managing complex laboratory operations, large grants, budgets and cross-functional teams.
Life Technologies Corporation - Previous
Developed and commercialized analytical strategies, kits and methodologies used worldwide in research and diagnostics.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Clinical Research Professor and Director of the both Proteomics and the General Clinical Research support core. Establishing a foundation in scientific rigor and evidence-based decision-making.
Why This Experience Matters for Coralville
In my career, I've learned that the most expensive mistakes happen when proper oversight is skipped. Whether it's a multi-million $ research project or a $36,000 city contract, the principles are the same:
- Ask questions before signing - What are we buying? Who reviewed this? What are the long-term implications?
- Implement stage-gates - Projects should hit milestones before receiving additional funding
- Demand transparency - Stakeholders deserve to know what's happening with their resources
- Use data, not assumptions - Measure outcomes, track progress, adjust based on evidence
Community Commitment
My wife Nancey and I have called this area home for 16 years. We've watched Coralville grow, and we want to ensure that growth is managed responsibly—with proper infrastructure, transparent processes, and accountability to taxpayers.
We believe in this community's potential. We also believe the City Council should be asking harder questions and providing stronger oversight of major decisions.
A Different Approach to City Council
I'm not running to maintain the status quo. I'm running because the recent Flock Security contract debacle demonstrated a fundamental failure of oversight. A $36,000 surveillance system was purchased and deployed without the City Council even knowing about it.
That's not how good governance works. That's not how any well-run organization operates.
City Council members should be reviewing contracts before they're signed, not learning about them from concerned citizens afterward. We need council members who will ask tough questions, demand answers, and put taxpayer interests first.