U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) research physicist, Mr. Scott L. Browning, Tactical Electronic Warfare Division, is presented the Department of the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award for sustained excellent performance pertaining to efforts to develop multiple, diverse breakthrough technologies for classified technical challenges to the Navy and Department of Defense (DoD).
Browning’s research in low observable and counter low observable (LO/CLO) stealth technologies is recognized nationally within the low observables community. His achievements have resulted in major advances in state-of-the-art signature control and LO technologies for naval sea and air platforms.
This prestigious award further recognizes Browning’s extraordinary accomplishments toward championing innovative ideas and leading diverse research teams through concept development, successful technology trials, and transition to the end-user.
“Mr. Browning’s work and his stature among DoD leaders, other agencies, and major aerospace firms is exceptional,” said Mr. Joseph E. Peak, head, NRL Signature Technology Office. “His technical contributions and selfless devotion in time, travel, and hard work reflect upon his character and dedication to the mission at hand, and his outstanding technical performance has resulted in significant advances in state-of-the-art low observables technology for the DoD and the nation.”
As one of the leading subject matter expert in LO systems, Browning has provided scientific and managerial advice to the Navy’s uniformed and civilian leaders regarding LO technology applicability to meet the needs of the Navy, as well as to other services and DoD leaders. Browning holds a Bachelor of Science degree in physics and minor in computer science from Ursinus College, Collegeville, Pa. (1983), and Master of Science in applied physics from American University, Washington, D.C., (1989). Prior to joining the NRL Tactical and Electronic Warfare, Signature Technology Office (STO) in 1991, Browning worked as a physicist for the former Sachs Freeman Associates, Inc.
During his tenure at NRL, Browning led a multi-disciplinary team to address a critical national need after the attacks of 9/11; participated on numerous Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD)-directed ‘Red Teams’ to ensure that vital U.S. technology was protected from export; transitioned key technologies into Navy, Air Force and Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) activities; championed and guided a number of emerging technology thrust areas as Contract Officer Representative (COR) and Navy Principal Investigator (PI); developed and tested the first Radar Absorbing Non-Skid for shipboard applications; built the most comprehensive RF measurement/characterization facility within the DoD (of its time); and led the design and procurement of the unique STO Ultra Near Field Electromagnetic (EM) Holography characterization facility.
Browning has authored approximately 20 classified papers, has published 20 papers in refereed journals, authored 28 NRL formal reports, and has been presenter at 10 professional society meetings. He holds a U.S. patent on RF Surface Wave Attenuation and has an additional four on application with the U.S. Patent and Trade Office. He is the recipient of five invention awards and five special act awards, has twice been presented the Alan Berman Research Publication Award, received the Certificate of Recognition from Col. Michael Williams For Duty Above and Beyond the Call” and has received Letter of Appreciation from Capt. B. J. O'Donnell, NAVSTO, NAVAIR “ For outstanding support and invaluable technical assistance.” Browning is also an active leader and mentor in the youth development organization, Boy Scouts of America.