Frances S. Ligler, D.Phil., D.Sc.
USN Senior Scientist for Biosensors and Biomaterials
Naval Research Laboratory
Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering
Washington , D.C.
Dr. Ligler is currently the Navy’s Senior Scientist for Biosensors and Biomaterials and a member of the Center of Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering at the Naval Research Laboratory. She has pioneered the development of ultra-sensitive antibody-based detection systems for biological agents and other hazardous materials. Her team is well-recognized for the ability to develop a biological sensor from concept to commercial product.
This work has had a profound impact on the development of biosensor-based detection of biological warfare agents over the past 17 years, leading to significant improvements in the nation’s capability for early and accurate detection.
The Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation is honored to have had the assistance of the following distinguished individuals serving on the 2003 Homeland Security Awards Evaluation Committee:
- Lieutenant Colonel Patricia K. Coomber, USAF, Ph.D. – Senior Research Fellow and Faculty at the Center for Technology and National Security Policy, National Defense University, Ft. McNair, Washington, D.C.
- Richard A. Craig, Ph.D. – Former Staff Scientist at the Pacific Northwest Laboratory, Richland, Washington. Dr. Craig was the recipient of the 2001 Christopher Columbus Foundation Award.
- Honorable John T. Odermatt – Commissioner, New York City Office of Emergency Management, New York, New York .
- Adam Short – Senior Editor and Publisher, Tech Watch News, Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
