Titanic Explorer, Nobel Laureate to Headline Naval S&T Expo

From Office of Naval Research Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- The leader of the expedition that discovered the Titanic wreck and a Nobel Prize-winning physicist are among a growing lineup of speakers slated for the Naval Future Force Science and Technology (S&T) Expo Feb. 4-5 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.

Sponsored by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), the naval S&T community's premier event gives attendees the opportunity to interact with Department of Defense (DoD) leaders, who will discuss the status of key programs and new research opportunities. The Expo also will feature as many as 100 exhibits from industry, academia and government.

A revised Naval S&T Strategy detailing ONR's investments in scientific research will be unveiled at the event and set the tone and agenda for the Expo. The strategy will provide in-depth looks at research in robotics, autonomy, cyberspace, advanced training technology, power and energy, and other disciplines.

Incoming Chief of Naval Research Rear Adm. Mathias Winter will host the event.

"This event is crucial for us to communicate opportunities to potential research partners -- and for participants to learn how they can work with us to achieve the Department of the Navy's goals for delivering innovative technologies," said current Chief of Naval Research Rear Adm. Matthew Klunder, who will pass the torch to Winter Jan. 1. "From past experience, I can say this event is essential to getting the best and brightest in one place to share research challenges, new ideas and innovative concepts."

Already confirmed to speak at the event are: Dr. Robert Ballard, president and founder of Ocean Exploration Trust and world-famous undersea explorer; Dr. Bill Phillips, University of Maryland professor and winner of the 1997 Nobel Prize in physics for his work on laser-cooling methods; and Maj. Gen. Albert Husniaux, NATO's chief scientist.

Alan Shaffer, principal deputy in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, will lead a panel discussion on technology and innovation featuring leaders of S&T organizations from throughout DoD on the Expo's first day.

More speakers will be announced as they are confirmed. Check the Expo website and ONR's Twitter and Facebook profiles for periodic updates.

In addition to distinguished guest speakers, ONR leaders such as Director of Research Dr. Larry Schuette and Director of Technology Dr. Tom Killion will discuss challenges and opportunities.

There also will be breakout rooms to learn more about each of ONR's departments and conduct one-on-one appointments with subject matter experts.

The event is co-sponsored by the American Society of Naval Engineers.

About the Naval Future Force S&T Expo

The Naval Future Force S&T Expo is the Office of Naval Research's premier event. Formerly the S&T Partnership Conference, it provides access to naval leaders and opportunities for dialogue on requirements, challenges and new opportunities in S&T. The Expo is intended to raise awareness of a revised Naval S&T Strategy, program initiatives and challenges, as well as explore new partnerships and ideas to achieve Navy and Marine Corps goals. The event will include specialty forums to discuss themes such as: small business, co-sponsored with the Navy Office of Small Business Programs; innovative technologies; visionary research; science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM); doing business with ONR; and international S&T perspectives. Click here to learn more.

About the Office of Naval Research

The Department of the Navy's Office of Naval Research (ONR) provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 70 countries, 1,035 institutions of higher learning and 914 industry partners. ONR employs more than 1,000 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel, with additional employees at the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C.