Outstanding Young Scientist and Outstanding Young Engineer Awards
Congratulations to the 2009 Winners
The Allan C. Davis Medal was presented to the winners at a ceremony on June 11, 2009. Photos from the event can be viewed, by clicking here.
2009 Outstanding Young Scientist
Dr. John S. LaPolla
Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences
Towson University, Towson, MD
Research Collaborator
National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC
Research Associate
Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, PA
Dr. LaPolla is an entymologist whose research interests include the coevolution of Acropyga ants and mealybugs, biodiversity studies, and reversionary systematics. He explores the relationship between queen ants and the mealybugs that she takes with her on the mating flight from her birth nest. Currently, he is completing a world revision of a large genus with over 140 species and a group that contains many invasive species of agricultural and economic importance. Defining these species will help efforts to using biological control methods to control invasive species.
2009 Outstanding Young Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, MD
Mr. Cochenour’s research has contributed significantly to the understanding of underwater optical communications and underwater imaging, particularly with his development of a new hybrid underwater imaging system, merging the benefits of radar technology with light detecting and ranging capabilities for optimized performance in 2004. He is currently conducting research to determine the extent of the effects water clarity has on the bandwidth capacity, link range, and transmitter/receiver accuracy of an optical link, laying the groundwork for development of a wireless underwater optical communications system that can be used by submarines, underwater vehicles, and ocean sensors.