UK lab awards highest scientific honor to Wright-Patt scientist

Published Sept. 21, 2011
By Chandra Lloyd
88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Lt. Col. Laura Barnes, 711th Human Performance Wing, received the Special Commendation Medal from the United Kingdom's Defence Science and Technology Laboratory on Sept. 14, 2011.

The award is one of the highest honors bestowed upon Ministry of Defence researchers and this was the first time it was awarded to a foreign national.

The medal was presented by Jonathon Lyle, on behalf of the MOD's Chief Science Advisor, Sir Mark Welland, in recognition of Colonel Barnes' work promoting and supporting the strategic relationship between the United Kingdom and United States in science and technology.

DSTL focuses on the research and development of science and technology for the defense and security of the UK, with collaboration from government agencies and universities around the world.

Colonel Barnes filled two roles during her three-year assignment in Wiltshire, United Kingdom. She served as research scientist specializing in laser bioeffects, and she was a liaison between DSTL Headquarters and the Air Force Research Laboratory.

"From the technical perspective I learned a lot from my British colleagues, who often challenged me to look at scientific challenges from new perspectives," said Colonel Barnes. "As a liaison, I learned a lot about AFRL by seeing our organization through the eyes of one of our most valued international partners."

During her assignment, Colonel Barnes worked with British researchers to define safe operating parameters for current and future laser systems used operationally by both nations.

"Laser systems are becoming more and more common on today's battlefield and providing field commanders with accurate information on minimum exposure distances and proper protective equipment allows the devices to be used safely and effectively by our personnel," said Colonel Barnes.

She also provided liaison support across both scientific and medical research communities. A biomedical science corps officer, she holds two doctoral degrees -- one in optometry and the other in optics. Her familiarity with both medical and physical sciences was one of the reasons she was selected for the DSTL assignment.

"Colonel Barnes is a great example of what an exceptional Air Force biomedical science officer represents," said Jack Blackhurst, director of the Human Effectiveness Directorate. "She has accomplished a great deal of work toward the research and development of laser safety standards as well as formulated great relationships with our international partners, and we are very proud of her for that."

"I was deeply touched when I learned that my British colleagues had nominated me for this prestigious award. When I was notified that the MOD's Chief Scientist had selected me to receive the actual award, I was very honored," said Colonel Barnes.

Colonel Barnes is currently the deputy chief of the Warfighter Interface Division.

"My replacement at DSTL, Lt. Col. Martin LaFrance, keeps me up to date on new developments in laser bioeffects on both sides of the Atlantic," said Colonel Barnes. "I really enjoy this area of research and even though I have changed roles at AFRL, I hope to maintain my ties to the technical community."

The colonel was appreciative for the support she has received.

"I would like to give special thanks to Jack Blackhurst, Human Effectiveness Directorate director; Jennie Veach and Jodi Nix, at the AFRL International Office, and my friends and colleagues at DSTL," Colonel Barnes said.