2013 Young Investigators Announced

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2013 Young Investigators Announced

The Department of the Navy announced today the names of 16 academic researchers representing disciplines from robotics to solar power who will receive funding for 2013 under the Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Program.

"Especially in challenging budget environments, it is critical the Department of the Navy invests for the long term so we maintain the technological advantage we currently enjoy," said Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus. "The outstanding research scientists who received these awards are engaged in pursuits that could lead to breakthroughs for the Navy and Marine Corps in the future."

One of the oldest and most competitive scientific research advancement programs in the country, Young Investigator Program rewards emerging leaders in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields based on the merits of their research and the potential for contributions to warfighters.

A total of $8.2 million will be distributed among this year's 16 recipients, chosen from a field of 310 candidates and representing 13 academic institutions throughout the country. Their work delves into an array of topics that could lead to advancements in naval technologies, including sea-based logistic delivery systems, robotics, photonic devices, undersea optical wireless communication, solar fuel cells and neural computation.

Each of the faculty members selected will receive annual monetary awards over three years for their respective research efforts. A list of this year's winners can be found at http://go.usa.gov/27hz.

0Since Office of Naval Research instituted the program in 1985, nearly 600 researchers from 121 colleges and universities have received funding under Young Investigator Program and have significantly advanced Department of the Navy research efforts.

"Many of these past winners found greater opportunities and gained prominence in their respective fields by continuing to engage in naval research beyond their award periods," said Dr. William Lukens, Office of Naval Research program manager for Young Investigator Program.

For more information, contact Peter Vietti, Office of Naval Research, at 703-588-2167.






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