The non-profit organization Fusion Power Associates presented awards to several members of the University of Rochester’s Laboratory for Laser Energetics at the FPA’s 38th annual meeting in December.
Robert L. McCrory, recently retired director of the LLE and University Professor, was awarded the Distinguished Career Award, presented to an individual who has made distinguished, life-long career contributions to fusion development. McCrory was director of the LLE from 1983 until his retirement in October. Under his leadership, the LLE became one of the leading research institutions in exploring inertial fusion and high-energy-density physics, and the Omega laser facility became one of the premier high-power laser user facilities in the world.
In addition to McCrory’s award, the FPA presented awards to the following LLE members:
- Valeri Goncharov, director of the LLE’s Theory Division, and Craig Sangster, director of the LLE’s Experimental Division, both received Leadership Awards, presented to individuals who have shown outstanding leadership qualities in accelerating the development of fusion. The award recognizes Goncharov’s and Sangster’s direction in improving implosion performance by increasing an understanding of physics and improving diagnostics, modeling and simulation on the OMEGA system.
- Adam Sefkow, assistant professor of mechanical engineering and physics and senior scientist, received an Excellence in Fusion Engineering Award, given in memory of MIT professor David J. Rose, and presented to individuals in the early part of their careers who have shown “both technical accomplishment and potential for becoming an exceptionally influential leader in the fusion field.” The award recognizes Sefkow’s scientific contributions on a range of topics, including magneto-inertial fusion, short-pulse and long-pulse laser-plasma interaction physics, and intense charged-particle beam transport.
Fusion Power Associates helps students, media, and the public learn more about fusion development and other applications of plasma science and fusion research. FPA annually presents awards to individuals in recognition of their leadership, distinguished careers, and excellence in fusion engineering.
