NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Frank L. Parker, the Distinguished Professor of Environmental and Water Resources Engineering at Vanderbilt, has been named a “national associate” by the National Academies, which includes the National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Engineering, the Institute of Medicine and the National Research Council.
In 2001, the Council of the National Academy of Sciences initiated the national associates program “to recognize extraordinary contributions to the National Academies through pro bono service to National Research Council and Institute of Medicine programs.” The lifetime honor recognizes past service and ongoing leadership. In December, 116 individuals were added to the national associate roster.
Parker, who is an internationally recognized expert in nuclear remediation, is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and has served on a number of advisory committees, including long-term membership on the Environmental Management Advisory Board to the U.S. Department of Energy.
He currently heads up the Radiation Safety of the Biosphere Project of the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis and has served for decades as one of the leading experts in helping both the United States and Russia clean up after accidents and inadequate handling of nuclear wastes during and after the Cold War.
In addition to his work with the Environmental Management Advisory Board, Parker helped the Department of Energy find ways to recycle some 30 million tons of contaminated concrete from decommissioned facilities around the nation.
“Professor Parker continues to exemplify the very best in engineering research and application to solve critical problems of international importance,” School of Engineering Dean Kenneth F. Galloway said. “The School of Engineering is very proud of his achievements and contributions, and we are delighted that his service has been recognized by the National Academies.”
Parker is the seventh person from Vanderbilt to receive this honor. Prior recipients are John Bransford, now at the University of Washington; A. Bertrand Brill, research professor of radiology and adjunct professor of physics and biomedical engineering; David S. Cordray, professor of public policy and professor of psychology and human development; Georgine M. Pion, research associate professor of psychology and human development; Andrew C. Porter, professor of public policy and education; and Chancellor Emeritus Joe B. Wyatt.
Media contact: David Salisbury, (615) 343-6803
David.salisbury@vanderbilt.edu
Vivian Cooper-Capps, (615) 322-2762
Vivian.f.cooper-capps@vanderbilt.edu