Physcial Sciences Division
Staff Awards & Honors

February 2008

Bill Weber Elected Fellow at Materials Research Society

Bill Weber

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Dr. Bill Weber was selected as an inaugural Fellow in the Materials Research Society. This is the first year, since being founded in 1973, that the society has honored notable members for their contributions to advancing materials research. Weber received this honor for his "seminal contributions, leadership, mentoring and innovative research on defects, defect properties, ion-solid interactions, radiation effects and models of radiation damage processes in glasses and ceramics."

"Career-wise, I almost grew up with the MRS," said Weber with a smile, "and to be selected the first time they had fellows was a significant recognition."

Weber's research is focused on the fundamental understanding and accurate modeling of the effects of atomic-level defects and radiation on ceramics. This research is essential for advancing electronic devices, developing radiation-tolerant materials for new nuclear power reactors, and addressing concerns regarding the stability of nuclear waste.

Because of his belief in sharing the results of his work with the broader scientific community, Weber has authored or co-authored more than 350 peer-reviewed publications and 50 technical reports, many of which have been cited extensively. For example, in the MRS Journal of Materials Research and MRS Bulletin, his 21 articles have earned more than 840 citations. Currently, he is finishing a 6-year stint as a principal editor and member of the editorial board on the Journal of Materials Research.

In addition to his research and publishing, Weber takes the time to mentor new scientists at PNNL. While reviewing papers and discussing comments is a painful chore to some, Weber enjoys the stimulating conversations and watching new scientists grow during their career.