ARLINGTON, Virginia – Ground-breaking research that led to the miniaturization of computer hard disc drives and world-wide usage of laptop computers recently earned an Office of Naval Research (ONR) sponsored scientist the prestigious Oliver E. Buckley prize.
Dr. Jagadeesh Moodera, an ONR-sponsored scientist with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), was presented with the honor by the American Physical Society (APS) on March 16, 2009, in Pittsburgh. The award is lauded by many scientists as second only to the Nobel Prize for research in condensed matter physics.
Investments in Moodera’s research improved the scientific community’s understanding of the physics behind what is known as “spin-dependent tunneling,” resulting in large returns for the Navy, DOD and the public at large.
"I am very appreciative to ONR and the U.S. Navy for the grants that allowed my team the 'no strings attached' freedom to explore and research in the field of spintronics," said Dr. Moodera. "ONR's continued sponsorship for exploring fundamental science with application in mind allows me to help build the future S&T workforce necessary to tackle the challenges ahead."
“ONR is sponsoring Dr. Moodera’s research team at MIT due to the potential that ultra-low power, radiation-hardened electronics and vastly increased non-volatile memory have for many future naval systems. Additional advantages of this science include increased thermal management margins and reduced power generation needs. These technologies have vast applications that benefit all of society, underscoring the importance of investing in basic research,” said Capt. Paul Essig, the Assistant Chief of Naval Research.
Moodera’s award confirms ONR’s visionary leadership in S&T and underscores the revolutionary significance of its research investments. In fact, many of the world’s best and brightest scientific minds seek ONR’s funding for their innovative ideas. These partnerships define ONR as the premier destination for next generation S&T, showcase ONR’s investment in a diverse future scientific workforce and deliver breakthrough innovations that are transitioning to the Navy and Marine Corps.
The Buckley award was established in 1952 by AT&T Bell Laboratories to commemorate a former and influential president of Bell Labs, Oliver E. Buckley. The award recognizes and encourages outstanding contributions in theoretical or experimental condensed matter physics.