WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --
A prominent research scientist from the Air Force Research Laboratory will receive The Minerals, Metals and Materials Society Bruce Chalmers Award.
The society’s award is named in honor of Bruce Chalmers, a professor of metallurgy and former master of John Winthrop House at Harvard University. This award recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions and is a leader in the field of solidification science.
Dr. Sheldon (Lee) Semiatin, a senior scientist in the Metals Branch, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, AFRL, will receive this prestigious award at the society’s annual meeting in Feb. 2017, in San Diego, California.
“I am happy that Air Force research area processing efforts are being recognized,” said Semiatin. “Interaction with industry partners and transition of technology to industry are key milestones for the lab.”
Nominating Semiatin for the award was Dr. Roland Dutton, also of the Materials and Manufacturing Directorate. Dutton noted Semiatin’s outstanding contributions to the science and engineering of thermomechanical processing of metal alloys and the transition of this technology to the aerospace industry as key factors for his receiving the award.
Thermomechanical processing is a metallurgical procedure that integrates forging, rolling, extrusion, etc., with heat-treatment to control metallurgical structure and properties. Such techniques are widely used in industry to make components for Air Force aircraft, spacecraft, propulsion and power systems and ordnance. Development of the scientific and technological foundations for TMP methods have reduced cost, improved reliability, and improved service performance of these systems.
Semiatin also plays a key role in the mentoring of new employees in the Metals Branch. His ability to share many years of knowledge aids newcomers in gaining a better understanding of their role in the science and research community.
“Dr. Semiatin gave me important advice and feedback on my work and helped me navigate towards successful research outcomes,” said Dr. Benji Maruyama, a research team lead at AFRL and prior mentee of Semiatin.
Over 15 letters from esteemed colleagues throughout academia and industry helped support Semiatin’s nomination.
Headquartered in the United States with ties abroad, The Minerals, Metals, and Materials Society is a professional organization that encompasses the entire range of materials and engineering, from minerals processing and primary metals production to basic research and the advanced applications of materials.
The Materials and Manufacturing Directorate celebrates its 100 year anniversary in 2017; added to the substantial list of accomplishments will be Dr. Semiatin’s well-deserved accolade.