Mark Zakota

Dr. Mark Zakota applies his expertise to solve challenges in the field of accounting and information assurance, with a particular focus on corporate disclosures and regulatory issues. As an Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland's Smith School of Business, he leverages his extensive knowledge to explore the intersection of accounting practices and emerging technologies. Dr. Zakota earned his Ph.D. from the University of Florida, where he developed a strong foundation in accounting research. His work primarily revolves around the use of natural language processing and machine learning to enhance the understanding and implementation of corporate disclosures. By integrating these advanced technologies, he aims to improve the transparency and efficiency of financial reporting. In addition to his focus on corporate disclosures, Dr. Zakota is deeply interested in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. He investigates how these factors can be better integrated into standard setting and regulatory frameworks. His research also delves into the use of XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language) to streamline and standardize financial data, making it more accessible and useful for stakeholders. Through his innovative approach, Dr. Zakota contributes to the advancement of accounting practices in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.