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Scientists Discover New Virus Invading US
Honeybees
 Aberdeen
Proving Ground, MD ― Scientists at the Edgewood Chemical
Biological Center (ECBC), located in Edgewood, MD, working with
scientists at the University of Montana and industry partners Bee
Alert Technology, Inc. and BVS, Inc. have discovered in U.S. honeybees
a virus only before identified in European honeybees.
The invading bee virus newly discovered in the
U.S. is called Varroa Destructor Virus -1 (VDV-1). First definitively
identified in Europe in 2006, VDV-1 is carried by both honeybees
and the tiny varroa mites that affect them. VDV-1 is related to
a family of paralytic viruses that causes a breakdown of some membranes.
In silkworms the virus causes flaccid disease, which causes the
worms to digest themselves internally.
The virus was discovered using a technology developed
for battlefield detection of viruses. This technology, called Integrated
Virus Detection System / Proteomic Mass Spectrometry, reveals virus
by size and peptide information contained in a sample and compares
that information against known genetic sequences. This approach
may provide important clues to scientists around the world working
to find the cause of Colony Collapse Disorder -- a mysterious malady
that has caused rapid depopulation of beehives around the globe.
This is the first detection of this virus in
North America and will allow beekeepers in the U.S. the possibility
of early control and quarantine of affected colonies.
For more information, please contact Joan Michel
(410.436.3610; 410.652.3912 – mobile)
View Press Release...
(August 29, 2008)
ECBC-PBA Launches Safety Excellence Program
 Working
in chemical and biological defense is all about making the world
a safer place. And those who work in the profession must be ever
vigilant while on the job. To that end, the leadership team at
the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center – Pine Bluff Arsenal
(ECBC-PBA) had this in mind before launching the Center’s
new Safety Excellence Program in May.
The new program, which embodies the first principle
of the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s
Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) to manage commitment and employee
involvement, includes best safety management system practices taken
from organizations with world class safety performance.
"ECBC in Aberdeen (Md.) launched this program
about 18 months ago and has already seen significant benefits from
it," said Paul Wynne, Manager of ECBC-PBA. "Our objectives
with this program are to derive the same benefits in safety performance
improvement, to strengthen our safety culture and to improve operating
effectiveness and efficiency by having integrated systems with
ECBC. All of this aimed at the goal of avoiding injuries and occupational
illnesses."
Read
More...
(July 15, 2008)
Mr. Angel (Willie) Felix Featured as "Role
Model" as World Class Engineer
We are pleased to announce that Mr. Angel (Willie)
Felix, Senior Engineer & Team Leader with ECBC-Rock Island,
has been selected and is featured as HENAAC's “Role Model
of the Week” on the homepage at http://www.henaac.org/ starting
on June 30, 2008.
HENAAC was established in 1989 as a means of identifying, honoring,
and documenting the contributions of outstanding Hispanic American
science, engineering, technology and math professionals. Corporations,
government agencies, academic institutions, the military, and the
business community-at-large have submitted thousands of nominees
over the last 19 years for this very prestigious recognition.
The weekly feature pays tribute to the world class Hispanic engineers,
scientists, and technology professionals from among national corporations,
academic institutions, government entities and the military. The
article is read by high school students involved in HENAAC's educational
awareness program, Viva Technology, as well as by college students
and professionals that visit our website.
Willie is one of the very few selected for recognition by HENNAC
as an Army engineer & scientist. His hard work and dedication
to excellence will set the example to others to motivate and enable
more students to achieve careers in science, technology, engineering
and math (STEM).
Mr. Felix's accomplishments bring great credit
to himself, ECBC, RDECOM, and the Department of the Army. Please
extend your congratulations to Willie.
(July 8, 2008)
ECBC earns
Good Neighbor Award
 |
Members of the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center
team were on hand at the 4th annual Harford County Good
Neighbor Award ceremony in Bel Air, where they received
the Community Service Organization of the Year in the Government/Military
category. Those in attendance at the ceremony were (from
back left) Mary Martinez, Janna Madren-Whalley, Barbara
Knapp, Vikki Henderson, Robert Knapp and William Klein;
and, front row, Mary Doak, Becky Stump, Stella Lee, Leanne
Argue and Dr. Jim Baker.
|
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD -- What makes a good neighbor? Is
it the fellow down the street who flashes a friendly smile and
waves when you see him? Perhaps, it’s the lady next door
who will check your mail when you are out of town? Maybe it’s
the family across the street who you invite over for cook-outs.
In 2007, center employees collected enough food to feed 70 Edgewood
and Joppatowne families. They collected a mountain of toys to make
the holidays special for children who might otherwise have missed
out. They donated clothing for Harford County residents in need.
When it comes to being a good neighbor, ECBC is simply off the
charts.
And, in recognition of its neighborly ways, the Harford County
Human Relations Commission presented ECBC with the 2008 Community
Service Organization of the Year Award in the Government/Military
category at its annual Good Neighbor Awards Ceremony April 21 in
Bel Air, Md.
Since 1987, volunteers from the center have reached out to its
surrounding community to offer residents in need a helping hand
through what has grown into the Food, Clothing and Gift Drive.
That first year, some 250 toys were collected by ambitious committee
members from across the center and distributed to local children.
In 1993, the program had been expanded to include food donations,
and enough was collected to feed seven local families for 10 days.
“These folks are right outside our gates” said Barbara
Knapp, the longtime chair of the Food, Clothing and Gift drive
committee, “We drive by them everyday on our way to work.
We are the ‘big guy’ in the neighborhood and there
are a lot of families in our neighborhood who need our help. We
have the ability to help and should lend them a hand.”
That is the very spirit that inspired the Human Relations Commission
to begin the awards program in 2004. “We look for organizations
that come together to try to do something better for the community,
said Mary Chance, director of the Human Relations Commission. “These
are people who make Harford County a better place to live.”
And, bringing people together who share that sentiment creates
a synergy within the volunteer community. “In the past,” Chance
explained, “organizations have realized that by teaming together,
they can help each other to accomplish more.”
Over the years, ECBC reached out to other government agencies
for just that reason. Its parent command, Research and Development
Command, as well as the Chemical Materials Agency and the Program
Manager for Assembled Chemical Weapons Assessment have joined in
the drive and expanded the program’s reach and effectiveness.
Harford County Executive David Craig gave the keynote address
at the April 21 awards ceremony. He said that volunteers such as
ECBC, and the numerous non-profit agencies, local businesses and
faith based organizations represented at the event offer a priceless
resource to the community.
“If we didn’t have them, we would have tremendous
gaps in the services we could offer,” he explained. “These
selfless volunteers get no perks or pay, but day after day they
come out and do things for their neighbors.”
Last year, ECBC’s Kids & Chemistry program was recognized
at the awards ceremony. This year, representatives went to the
event expecting similar recognition. They were pleasantly surprised
to find out that they were singled out for the honor, when Knapp
walked to the stage with a smile to accept the award and certificates
of recognition from the local and federal representatives for the
achievement.
“It’s wonderful,” Knapp said. “This award
is the culmination of many years of hard work by a lot of great
people. This award is truly an ECBC-wide award. All we ever had
to do is ask, and they continued to give year after year.”
Knapp stepped down this year as the chair of the Food, Clothing
and Gift Drive committee ahead of her pending retirement from the
center, where she works in the Workforce Management Office. But,
she said she is leaving the program in very capable hands. Jean
Salvatore, of the Engineering Directorate, and Leanne Argue, of
the Research and Technology Directorate, will co-chair the committee
moving forward.
(March 27, 2008)
R&T scientist co-edits second
edition of Chemical Warfare Agents
 Dr.
Harry Salem of Edgewood Chemical Biological Center’s (ECBC)
Research and Technology Directorate recently co-edited of Chemical
Warfare Agents: Chemistry, Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutics.
The book explores the latest methods and products for preventing,
diagnosing, and treating the acute and chronic effects of toxic
chemical warfare agent (CWA) exposure.
The book, co-edited by retired Army Col. James A. Romano, Jr.
and Col. Brian J. Lukey, is actually the second edition. The first,
Chemical Warfare Agents: Toxicity at Low Levels, was published
just prior to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. This
edition focuses on key developments in the field since 2001, including
new epidemiological or clinical studies of exposed or potentially
exposed populations; new treatment concepts and products; improved
organization of the national response apparatus in the U.S. addressing
the potential for CWA terrorism; and improved diagnostic tests
that enable rapid diagnosis and treatment.
Leading researchers and physicians who have contributed to the
latest edition explain how breakthroughs help researchers determine
physiologically relevant detection thresholds and develop more
effective countermeasures and national response procedures. Chemical
Warfare Agents provides first responders and emergency medical
teams with the most up-to-date information they need to prepare
for and handle natural disasters, chemical spills, terrorism, and
warfare situations quickly and effectively.
Salem’s research interests and experience include inhalation
and general pharmacology and toxicology, and in-vitro molecular
toxicology. He was awarded the Society of Toxicology Congressional
Science Fellowship and served as the Science Advisor to Congressman
Jim Greenwood and has been a consultant to the FBI and to Attorney
General Janet Reno on matters of toxicology, and has testified
before Congress on the subject. He was an advisor to the Persian
Gulf Illnesses’ Investigation Team, and served as the Chair
of the Pharmacy Committee for the Office of Emergency Preparedness
of the National Disaster Medical System prior to the 1996 Olympic
Games in Atlanta.
He has served on the Editorial Boards of several professional
journals and was Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Applied Toxicology
for more than 20 years. as Adjunct Associate Professor of Pharmacology
at the University of Pennsylvania, Adjunct Professor of Environmental
Health at Temple University, Adjunct Professor of Chemical Toxicology
at Drexel University and the University of Maryland, and is a Visiting
Professor at Rutgers University. He has also been employed by small
and large pharmaceutical and contract laboratories.
Salem has served as President of the National Capital Area Chapter
of the Society of Toxicology, the Association of Government Toxicologists,
and Sigma Xi. He serves as the Chair of the Technical Committee
of the Society of Toxicology, and on the Council of the International
Society of Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology. He also served
on the Society of Toxicology Task Force for a Chemical Biological
Terrorism Resource Registry and on the Advisory Board of the Rocky
Mountain Center for Homeland Defense.
Dr. Salem is a Fellow of the New York Academy of Sciences, the
American college of Clinical Pharmacology, the American college
of Toxicology and the Academy of Toxicological SciencesChemical
Warfare Agents, Salem’s 14th published book, is dedicated
to the memory of Drs. Satu Somani and Brennie E. Hackley Jr., distinguished
colleagues and friends of the editors. Salem has also published
more than 100 papers in scientific journals. He received a Bachelors
of Arts from the University of Western Ontario, a Bachelors of
Science in Pharmacy from the University of Michigan, and a Masters
and a Doctorate degree in Pharmacology from the University of Toronto.
Salem has worked at ECBC since 1984.
(March 27, 2008)
Mr.
Richard Decker Appointed Technical Director of Edgewood Chemical
Biological Center
 Mr.
Richard W. Decker II will be officially appointed as Technical
Director of the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) March
2. He has served as acting director since February after serving
as Director of Engineering within the organization since February
2005.
As Technical Director, Mr. Decker is responsible for 1,600 Department
of the Army civilians, soldiers and on-site contractors located
at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Pine Bluff Arsenal, AR; and Rock Island,
Ill. Those employees conduct research, engineering and field operations
in support of the Department of Defense and other government agencies,
by providing innovative science, technology, and engineering solutions
for chemical and biological defense.
Between June 2002 and February 2005, Mr. Decker served as the
Deputy Joint Program Executive Officer for Chemical Biological
Defense, at Fort Belvoir, Va. Between September 2001 and June 2002,
he served as the Deputy Director for Engineering at ECBC. Earlier
in his career, he served as a Systems Manager for several protective
mask programs and as the Program Manager for Smoke/Obscurants at
Aberdeen Proving Ground.
Mr. Decker holds two Bachelor of Science degrees: one in Mechanical
Engineering from the University of Maryland and the other in Chemistry
from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
(February 2, 2008)
Dr.
Joseph Corriveau and Mr. Joseph Wienand inducted into the Senior
Executive Service.
On Thursday, 17 January, Dr. Joseph Corriveau and Mr. Joseph Wienand
were inducted into the Senior Executive Service. About 200 ECBC
employees and invited guests were present to witness the swearing
in ceremony.
Dr. Corriveau was recently appointed as the Director of Research
and Technology. Mr. Wienand was recently appointed as the Director
for Program Integration.
The Senior Executive Service was established in 1978 to be a corps
of executives to serve in key governmental positions not filled
by top Presidential appointees. SES members are the major link
between these appointees and the rest of the Federal workforce.
The SES was envisioned as an executive corps whose members have
outstanding executive expertise, solid public service values, and
a broad perspective of government. The SES Corps is comprised of
approximately 6,800 members. These executives make up less than
.02% of the Federal workforce but operate and oversee nearly every
government activity in approximately 75 Federal agencies. The Department
of Defense employs approximately 460 members of the SES, who are
accorded General Officer status.
(January 17, 2008)
 ECBC
Releases FY 2006 Annual Report
Edgewood Chemical Biological Center's (ECBC) Annual
Report highlighting 2006 technical achievements is now available
online. ECBC’s workforce achieved important milestones
and technological breakthroughs in 2006, bringing immediate and
direct support to the warfighter while advancing technology that
will be crucial for the warfight of tomorrow.
To request a hard copy please email ecbc-communications@apgea.army.mil.
(August 2, 2007)
Raymond DiBerardo Receives the Army's Highest Honorary Award
Raymond DiBerardo, ECBC Project Leader and Technical Engineer,
was presented with the Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service
Award by Jim Zarzycki, ECBC Director, and George Collins, ECBC
CB Services Director. DiBerardo received the US Department of the
Army's highest honorary award for his extensive accomplishments
including the successful destruction of approximately 300 chemical
munitions; the design, development and testing of mobile destruction
systems; and providing exceptional chemical demilitarization support
to the Defense Threat Reduction Agency and the Albanian government.
(July 11, 2007)
ECBC Employees Receive Excellence in Federal Career Awards
The Baltimore Federal Executive Board recognized three Edgewood
Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) employees in the 2007 Excellence
in Federal Career Awards program. The purpose of this program is
to recognize outstanding men and women in the federal government
for exceptional and commendable work.
Alvin (AJay) Thornton, ECBC, is a Silver Award recipient in the “Outstanding
Supervisor” category. AJay serves as a senior manager and
business unit leader for all Engineering Directorate efforts related
to individual and collective protection, contamination avoidance
and decontamination. He also serves as client manager to five Joint
Project Managers, as well as the US Army TACOM Life Cycled Management
Command Integrated Logistic Support Center. AJay is recognized
as a highly motivated professional, who continues to raise the
standard for future leaders. Pioneering the ECBC mentoring program
for young journeyman level scientists and engineers, AJay and his
mentee program participants were recognized as the most productive
teams and now serve as the standard for others.
Joan Michel, ECBC, received a Silver Award within the “Outstanding
Professional (Administrative Management & Specialist)” category.
Within two and a half years Joan has developed and implemented
a long-term plan to improve ECBC’s internal and external
communications. ECBC’s strategic plan recognized the importance
of improving internal communications and improving awareness of
ECBC’s capabilities among external stakeholders. The plan
also incorporates efforts to improve communications and relationships
with the local community, state and local elected officials and
high level organizations within the Army and the Department of
Defense. By proactively addressing ways to increase internal awareness
of new projects, employee recognition and accomplishments, Joan
has ultimately enhanced the knowledge, performance and camaraderie
of the staff. Joan’s work has brought visibility to the civilian
chemical and biological defense sector, opening opportunities for
increased technology transfer that will serve for years to come.
Raymond Mastnjak, ECBC Science and Technology Advisor for the
CB Services Directorate, received the Silver Award in the “Volunteer
Service Individual” category. By example, Ray encourages
his peers to continually grow and develop their talents and skills.
Earlier this year he took a leave of absence to volunteer at the
Children of Zion Village, an orphanage that is home to 55 children
between the ages of one and 16 infected by Human Immunodeficiency
Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The
Village, located on the Zambezi River in Africa, provides the children
with education, health care and vocational and life skills training.
Within his seven months at the orphanage, Ray’s leadership
and handyman skills were instrumental in making improvements such
as: building the school house, kitchen repairs, helping the medical
staff tend to the physical needs of the children and vehicle repairs.
His support also resulted in providing transportation for locals
villagers to the hospital and establishing computer, math and music
classes for the children.
The work of these men and women promote a higher standard of performance
in the federal government. These awards honor exemplary job performance
and employee contributions to the federal government or the community.
(May 8, 2007)
ECBC Scientists Identify Pathogens That May Be Causing Global Honey-Bee Deaths
 |
Photo credit:
Scott Bauer, USDA/ARS
|
Researchers have identified potential culprits behind the wide-spread
catastrophic death of honey bees around North America and Europe.
A team of scientists from Edgewood Chemical Biological Center and
University of California San Francisco identified both a virus
and a parasite that are likely behind the recent sudden die-off
of honey-bee colonies.
Using a new technology called the Integrated Virus Detection
System (IVDS), which was designed for military use to rapidly screen
samples for pathogens, ECBC scientists last week isolated the presence
of viral and parasitic pathogens that may be contributing to the
honeybee loss. Confirmation testing was conducted over the weekend
by scientists at the University of California San Francisco. ECBC
scientists presented the results of their studies yesterday to
a United States Department of Agriculture working group, hastily
convened to determine next steps.
For the past year, experts have observed a marked decline in
the honey bee population, with entire colonies collapsing without
warning. Approximately 50 percent of hives have disappeared and
researchers around the country are scrambling to find out why.
Scientists have termed this phenomenon "Colony Collapse Disorder" and
fear that without honey bees to pollinate crops like fruits, vegetables,
and almonds the loss of honey bees could have an enormous horticultural
and economic impact around the world.
ECBC is one of many academic, commercial and government concerns
studying the honey bee population decline. ECBC’s role will
be to identify the extent of the problem and conduct ongoing detection
activities. [Read
the press release]
(April 25, 2007)
 ECBC
Celebrates its 90th Anniversary
This year marks Edgewood's 90th Anniversary. Since 1917, the U.S.
Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center has served as the Nation’s
lead science and technology center for the development of chemical
and biological defense products and services. Our history dates
back to the trenches of World War I where chemical agent was first
used as a battlefield weapon and gas masks were consequently needed
for U.S. Army soldiers. From April 2007 to October 2007 we will
be commemorating this 90-year history with lectures, informational
products and special events.
To kick off our 90th anniversary celebration, Mr. Jeffery Smart,
Research, Development and Engineering Command's historian, presented
the first in a series of monthly historical lectures, "The History
of Edgewood." Click here to view a video of
his presentation, which chronicles the Edgewood Area of Aberdeen
Proving Ground's growth and change over decades. Each month we
will also feature a story about a particular event in Edgewood's
history.
To view these stories click
here.
(April 24, 2007)
ECBC Research Chemist Received ASTM International Award
of Merit
Ann Brozena Butrow, ECBC Research Chemist, was recently presented
the Award of Merit by the American Society for Testing and Materials
(ASTM) International for her exceptional work with ASTM International
Committee E37 on Thermal Measurements. The Award of Merit is ASTM
International’s highest achievement for individual members
that demonstrate distinguished service and outstanding participation
in committee activities.
Ann’s significant individual contribution and exemplary
leadership earned her the Award of Merit and the honorary title
of Fellow. ASTM International Committee E37 recognized Ann for
her work in thermal analysis, including standards tests and terminology.
James Thomas, ASTM President, presented the award to Ann during
a Committee E37 meeting at the ASTM Headquarters in West Conshohocken,
Pennsylvania.
Throughout her career at ECBC, Ann has concentrated on investigating
physical and thermal properties of chemicals, specifically those
of military interest. In 1994, Ann joined ASTM as a member of an
E37 task group working to standardize procedures for vapor pressure
measurement by differential thermal analysis. Her work with this
task group led to the publication of ASTM E1782, Standard Test
Method for Determining Vapor Pressure by Thermal Analysis in 1996.
Currently, Ann is the First Vice-Chairman of ASTM Committee E37
on Thermal Measurements, one of 139 technical standards writing
committees. At present, Committee E37 controls over 50 standards
that are vital in testing various materials for thermal, rheological,
and thermophysical properties. In addition, she chairs Subcommittee
E37.03 on Nomenclature and Definitions and a task group on method
consistency. Ann’s efforts with ASTM have previously earned
her the honor of an E37 Award of Appreciation. Ann’s hard
work and dedication have proved her to be a great asset to ASTM
International and ECBC.
(April 24, 2007)
Kids & Chemistry Program nominated for the Government
Community Service Organization of the Year Award
 ECBC's
Kids & Chemistry Program, led by Ms. Suzanne Procell, CB Services
Directorate, was formally acknowledged at the Harford County Human
Relations Commission Good Neighbor Community Service Award ceremony
held on 18 Apr 07 at the St. Mary Magdalen Mission, Churchville,
Maryland. The Kids & Chemistry Program was nominated for the
Government Community Service Organization of the Year Award which
recognizes outstanding achievements and unique contributions to
the community. The Kids & Chemistry Program, established in
the year 2000, is a group of approximately 20 volunteers that provides
Harford County's youth with an educational opportunity to interact
with some of the US Army’s most skilled scientists, engineers
and computer analysts during hands-on science projects held throughout
the year in local libraries, county facilities and schools. The
program's goal is to inspire these young residents to pursue higher
education and career opportunities in the sciences. As a result,
these young residents are encouraged to see the importance of education
and the possibility of future science-related careers. This interaction
also creates working relationships within the community and a better
understanding of the work that occurs at ECBC and how it impacts
the local community and the Nation. Thus far, the Kids & Chemistry
team has provided hands-on science projects to over 2,500 youths. Click
here to visit their website.
(April 24, 2007)
 Sample
Receipt Facility Under Construction
Site work has begun for the Sample Receipt Facility (SRF)—the
only full-range national resource to receive, triage, sample, and
screen "unknowns" coming from anywhere in the world including military
theaters of operation, intelligence organizations, and law enforcement
agencies.
The SRF is the first multi-agency funded project at Aberdeen Proving
Grounds—with $15M provided by the Army, $9.6M contributed
by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and $2.4M provided
by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), totaling $27M in
construction funds. The US Army Corps of Engineers worked with
experts and scientists from the various agencies to design this
one of a kind facility.
The FBI will safely receive WMD evidence by using specialized
chemical and biological forensic laboratories designed to protect
them as they conduct their traditional forensic examinations on
contaminated evidence. Simultaneously, ECBC will identify and render
safe the hazardous materials or explosives. The new DHS Chemical
Security Analysis Center (CSAC) would then integrate the combined
laboratory results with information from intelligence reports and
other knowledge databases to further aid in characterizing the
material or provide investigative leads.
Utilities are slated to be installed and the foundation poured
by late February 2007. Completion is expected in the summer of
2008. Working together within a single facility, the FBI, ECBC,
and DHS have taken a leap forward in enhancing the Nation’s
capability to deal with potential WMD attacks.
(January 31, 2007)
 ECBC
Microbiologist Dr. Kevin O'Connell Named "Investigator of the Month."
by
the Defense Threat Reduction Agency
Dr. Kevin P. O’Connell’s research interests are focused
in three areas: 1) the development of new simulants for bacterial
and viral threat agents that will be usable from lab bench to field
test, 2) new real-time assays to detect threat agent genetic signatures,
and 3) genetic characterization of Ricinus communis, the castor
plant and source of the toxin ricin. He has also recently begun
collaborating on work to redefine the phylogenetic relationships
among strains of Yersinia pestis, and consults with the US Army
Corps of Engineers on biotechnology applications for soil stabilization.
His research experience also includes studies of prokaryotic gene
expression, biosensor characterization, and practical applications
of molecular biology in biologic al defense.
Dr. O’Connell serves as adjunct assistant professor in the
departments of Pharmacology and Epidemiology at the University
of Maryland School of Medicine, lecturing on topics from the pharmacology
of antibiotics to molecular biology and bacterial genetics. He
has presented his work in biological defense research at several
national, international, university and other professional settings.
Since 2002, Dr. O’Connell has been a review panelist for
the Force Protection session of the biannual Army Science Conference.
Dr. O’Connell is an author on over 40 peerreviewed scientific
journal articles, Army technical reports, book chapters, abstracts,
and other articles. He is currently serving a three-year term on
the editorial board of the ASM journal Applied and Environmental
Microbiology, and is an ad hoc grant reviewer for the Army Research
Office. He is a co-inventor on eight patents and pending patent
applications. Before joining government service, Dr. O’Connell
received postdoctoral training at the NSF Center for Microbial
Ecology at Michigan State University, the University of Maryland
School of Medicine, and was a NRC Research Fellow at ECBC. He received
MS and Ph.D. degrees in Bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison,
and his BS degree in Biology from MIT.
(December 7, 2006)
 ECBC
Win's MarCom Platinum Award, the Organization's Top Honor, for 2005 Annual
Report
MarCom Creative Awards announced winners for the 2006 international
awards competition that recognizes outstanding achievement by marketing
and communication professionals. Among the recipients of the coveted
Platinum award was ECBC, for its 2005
Annual Report.
There were over 5,000 entries from throughout the United States
and several foreign countries in the MarCom Creative Awards 2006
competition. About 15% of the entries won the Platinum Award, the
organization’s top honor.
View
ECBC 2005 Annual Report
Visit
MarCom website
(November 29, 2006)
 ECBC’s
Enzyme-Based Decontamination Technology Featured in the 2007
FLC Calendar
A photo of a suited up first responder dispersing All-Clear™ foam
to a contaminated vehicle is featured in the Federal Lab Consortium
(FLC) 2007 Calendar.
The Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) developed a patented
technology to neutralize organophosphorus chemical agents and pesticides.
This enzyme-based technology simplifies and improves the process
of decontaminating a class of highly toxic chemicals, including
nerve agents. Other decontamination methods use corrosive chemicals
that are more costly, less efficient, and generate a substantial
amount of residue waste.
ECBC partnered with Genencor International, Inc. to manufacture
this licensed enzymatic decontamination technology, which is trademarked
and known as DEFENZ™. DEFENZ™ is now on the market
and available to companies that produce and sell firefighting foams
and sprays. All-Clear™, developed by Kidde Fire Fighting
Inc, is the first commercially available decontaminant that incorporates
these enzymes developed by ECBC. All-Clear™ neutralizes agents
without harmful effects on sensitive apparatuses like landing gear
and brake assemblies, and has proved to be non-corrosive in Boeing
Series Corrosion testing.
(November 20, 2006)
 ECBC
ships the second of four mine clearing surrogate vehicles it
is building for deploying warfighters in training at the National
Training Center
Last week Edgewood Chemical Biological Center shipped the second
of four mine clearing surrogate vehicles it is building for deploying
warfighters in training at the National Training Center. Authentic
mine clearing vehicles are urgently needed in the theater of war
in Operation Iraqi Freedom and manufacturers are shipping the vehicles
overseas as quickly as they can be built, leaving none available
for training the warfighters who are preparing for deployment.
Working with the Army's Rapid Equipping Force, ECBC engineers
found another solution -- to modify a readily accessible vehicle
to meet the unit's training needs. Using an M923A2 5-ton cargo
truck as the base, the surrogate was then fabricated to look like
the real mine clearing vehicle from the outside and carefully engineering
to accurately emulate its interior spaces. The surrogate has an
operational articulated hydraulic arm and interior and exterior
controls of the same manufacture as the authentic mine clearing
vehicle.
MG Nadeau, Commander, Research Development and Engineering Command, was on
hand to witness the second of four mine clearing surrogates to be shipped to
the NTC. Just 40 days after requesting the surrogate vehicles, the first
one was delivered July 18, 2006 and the second was shipped from Aberdeen Proving
Ground July 21st. Two more are in production and will be completed in August.
MG Nadeau recognized the team's accomplishments stating that "Your success
is a monumental home run."
ECBC's mission is to develop chemical and biological defense technology for
the warfighter and for homeland security applications. In order to fulfill
this mission, ECBC has grown a robust capability in engineering design and
is particularly equipped to respond to urgent needs, often fielding new equipment
in weeks.
(July 27, 2006)
 ECBC
works with Harford County Public Schools to develop new curriculum
in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness
Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) is working with the
Harford County Public Schools to develop a new curriculum in Homeland
Security and Emergency Preparedness. ECBC, in conjunction with
EAI Corporation in Abingdon, hosted a two-day workshop July 6-7
at the Edgewood Area of Aberdeen Proving Ground to familiarize
teachers and administrators with the issues and information related
to terrorism and emergency response. Participants were introduced
to critical incident response concepts and toured several research
laboratories and engineering facilities.
ECBC was selected to serve on the Harford County Program Advisory
Committee for the development of this first-in-the-nation high
school curriculum in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness,
a program that will be piloted at Joppatowne High School. ECBC
helped conduct a needs assessment, establish the Homeland Security
Sciences Program Sequence and identified courses of instruction
that would be taught under this sequence. ECBC also helped obtain
program approval and secure funding for this pioneering effort.
Because of its involvement in this program, ECBC was also selected
to serve on a Maryland State Department of Education advisory council
and was invited to participate at the national level working with
the Department of Education.
Once students complete the required coursework, they will be able
to fill critical positions within the Harford County area to include
ECBC and APG as well as supporting contractor infrastructure.
“We’re pleased to be able to lend our expertise in
the area of homeland security and emergency preparedness to the
school system,” said Mary Doak, ECBC program manager for
the curriculum development project. “This is a completely
unique program that may serve as a model for other school systems.
Right now ECBC is making an investment in the community. And we
hope that in a few years, this program will have developed a group
of knowledgeable experts groomed for employment at Aberdeen Proving
Ground.”
(July 7, 2006)
ECBC Releases FY 2005 Annual Report
 Edgewood
Chemical Biological Center's (ECBC) Annual
Report highlighting 2005 technical achievements is now available
online. You will see that our achievements span the entire materiel
life cycle from research to demilitarization. While activities
ensuring our warfighter has the equipment to fight, survive and
win on a chemical biological battlefield dominated 2005, ECBC also
made important contributions in support of non-proliferation, counter
proliferation and consequence management.
To request a hard copy please email ecbc-communications@apgea.army.mil.
(June 28, 2006)
ECBC Hosts eCYBERMISSION Students
 Edgewood
Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) is hosting 60 eCYBERMISSION students
as well as 20 teachers and chaperones as they take part in an Army
Enrichment Day at Aberdeen Proving Ground Tuesday, June 20th. These
students represent the most intelligent and technologically innovative
children in the world. They are the regional winners of the eCYBERMISSION
program from each of the 50 states and Department of Defense Territories
to include Armed Forces Europe, Armed Forces Pacific, American
Samoa, Guam, and Puerto Rico. These regional winners will be flown
to Washington, DC to compete for the national eCYBERMISSION award.
eCYBERMISSION is a Web-based competition organized by the Army’s
Research, Development and Engineering Command that rewards students
in grades six through nine for solving problems in their communities
using science, math and technology. This year, 1,111 teams, comprised
of 4,035 students, submitted their research to the Army for judging.
Last year’s sixth grade national winning team from Kennedy
Middle School in St. Clair Shores, Michigan dealt with their community’s
concern with the growing epidemic of West Nile Virus. Addressing
the overpopulation of mosquitoes, the team set out to find a way
to control the growing number of mosquitoes and contain the spread
of West Nile. The team found that bats consume large amounts of
mosquitoes. They then built bat houses to attract bats and control
the mosquito population. The team then publicized their solution
through local newspapers and by creating an awareness video.
This year’s student will be greeted by ECBC Director Jim
Zarzycki and tour the Berger Laboratory. There they will learn
about computer aided drafting and design, conceptual design and
prototyping, engineering, and manufacturing. Additionally the National
Science Center will have its 18-wheeler-Mobile
Discovery Center parked behind the lab for the students.
Through eCYBERMISSION, the U.S. Army has awarded more than $2.5
million in prize money in support of the science, math and technology
leaders of tomorrow. Since its inception four years ago, over 25,000
students have participated in the competition.
(June 13, 2006)
5th Army WMD Civil Support Teams Receive Training at
ECBC
 This
month Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) is supporting
the 5th Army in providing intensive training in chemical and biological
incident management to four National Guard Weapons of Mass Destruction
Civil Support Teams. The teams, who traveled here from Delaware,
New Hampshire, Vermont and Washington D.C., are receiving chemical
and biological defense classroom instruction as well as training
on the use and capabilities of incident response and laboratory
equipment.
The teams are being trained using four scenarios involving the
supposed use of weapons of mass destruction. The scenarios are
being acted out at three locations on Aberdeen Proving Ground and
one just off post property. To construct the scenarios, ECBC experts
used current hazard and intelligence information. Each one has
been developed to presumably involve a chemical, biological, radiological
agent in a clandestine environment that will require the team to
utilize all equipment and personnel. The ECBC training team also
provided classroom instruction on the history of chemical biological
warfare, properties and characteristics of chemical agents, recognizing
drugs versus chemical or biological materials, improvised dispersal
devices, industrial agents and topics on laboratory and sampling
methods. Instruction has been provided by ECBC subject matter experts.
Right now, 32 states have National Guard Civil Support Teams,
and another 23 teams are in the process of forming. Each 22-person
team is designed to augment "first response" agencies
and must be prepared to deploy within 90 minutes of notification
in response to a man-made or natural event causing massive destruction
to lives or property within the United States or its territories.
They are designed to provide assistance to a local incident commander
in determining the nature and extent of an attack or incident;
providing expert technical advice on response operations; and helping
to identify and support the arrival of follow-on state and federal
military response assets. They also support local and state authorities
at domestic incident sites by identifying agents and substances,
assessing current and projected consequences, advising on response
measures, and assisting with requests for additional military support.
(May 12, 2006)
ECBC Decontamination Technology Wins Prestigious Award
 A decontamination technology developed by the U.S. Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) was named a winner of the prestigious 2006 Award for
Excellence in Technology Transfer.
The new technology, called "Enzyme-Based Decontamination Technology for Organophosphorus Nerve Agents and Pesticides," is an enzyme-based catalytic decontaminant for chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals. Designed for military use in combat and in operations other than war, ECBC's enzymatic decontamination system is unique because it is non-toxic and environmentally safe, a significant difference from caustic chemical decontamination solutions of the past. The system is dual use, as it can be employed in military operations as well as in civilian first responder and homeland defense situations. In an incident where highly toxic chemicals are released, the enzymes quickly
neutralize the chemicals before the contamination spreads.
The substance is stored as a dry powdered concentrate that is activated when combined with available water. It can then be applied to any water-tolerant surface with existing military or civilian spray or foam systems. No rinsing is required, which reduces both the time and amount of water needed to effectively decontaminate.
Because of improved logistics in storage and transporting the enzymes, fire fighters, HAZMAT personnel, and other first responders will be able to more quickly, safely, and effectively respond to an intentional or accidental release of chemical or biological contaminants that threaten public safety and homeland security.
ECBC patented this technology and licensed it to Genencor International, Inc., who licensed the technology and now manufactures the enzymatic decontamination technology under the trademark DEFENZT.
"We are pleased that important technologies such as enzymatic decontamination are being recognized as important contributions to our nation's defense," said Mr. Jim Zarzycki, ECBC Technical Director.
The award is sponsored by the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer. The ECBC inventors will be honored at an award ceremony, which will take place on May 3rd in Minneapolis. (February 15, 2006)
Mikulski Military Tour Celebrates Public-Private Partnership for Innovation at APG
 Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.) made another stop on her military innovation tour today at the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) to announce she has succeeded in her fight for $1.5 million for the Aberdeen Technology Transfer Initiative (ATTI). ATTI is an economic development program designed to increase cooperation between Aberdeen Proving Ground's (APG) research laboratories and private sector companies and entrepreneurs. Senator Mikulski secured $1 million in federal funding in 2004 to get this project off the ground.
"I've brought my innovation tour to Edgewood to highlight the work being done to keep America strong - developing smarter tools for our military with high-tech jobs for Harford and Cecil Counties and public-private partnerships for innovation," said Senator Mikulski. "A stronger America begins at home. The work done here will protect our troops on the battlefield, protect our first responders here at home, protect our jobs in a highly competitive global market and protect our taxpayers."
Since 2004, ATTI has provided grants to Maryland companies with innovative solutions to the Army's technology problems. This public/private collaboration develops smart tools to protect soldiers against new and emerging threats and encourages innovative use of military technology by the commercial sector. Today's federal funding will help provide grants to 16 small businesses to collaborate with scientists at APG and ECBC.
Senator Mikulski will visit several more military facilities on her multi-city innovation tour of Maryland as she addresses the development of smarter tools for our military, new jobs for the state and innovative technology that will protect our troops.
Senator Mikulski fought for the $1.5 million as a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. "We face a global war against terrorism with predatory nations and groups that want to do us harm. But they won't succeed. We are developing the smart new technologies and smart new weapons that are going to keep America safe," said Senator Mikulski. "I will continue to fight to make sure we are making the right investments to develop the new ideas that will protect us."
(December 1, 2005)
ECBC Recognizes Warfighter Respiratory Protection Technological Contribution
 Columbus, Ohio - The US Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) presented Dr. Joseph Rossin of Guild Associates, Inc with a Performance Recognition Medal on November 15th. Rossin's accomplishments are regarded as outstanding and we, the community representing the scientists and engineers in support of the Warfighter, recognize and appreciate his commitment to ensure that the best filtration technology for respiratory protection is available for our military personnel. Rossin has been instrumental in developing a new class of sorbent structures, which are effective in removing toxic industrial chemicals and chemical warfare agents. These improvements are not marginal enhancements to current filters, but are regarded as a significant advancement in sorption science, one that has inspired academia, industry scientists and engineers to follow. These materials and engineered sorbent compositions have met the technical challenges and requirements of the Joint Service General Purpose Mask filter system. During the period of 2001 to 2005, key sorbent materials and filter bed designs have been developed and successfully transitioned for Low Rate of Initial Production. Rossin's class of sorbent compositions are being demonstrated in variants of the M98 and M48 filters under the Joint Collective Protection Equipment and Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency programs, as well as a number of filters by international manufacturers such as those located in the United Kingdom. The Department of Defense regards protecting the US Warfighter during a chemical event as a major priority, and a primary element for insuring maximum safety to personnel and sustainment of military operations. A critical component in the suite of chemical defense materiel is the capability to provide individual and collective respiratory protection to soldiers through the use of filters for masks, shelters and vehicles. The ability to provide clean breathable air to the Warfighter in a contaminated environment rests solely and uniquely on the performance of sorbents contained in filters.
(November 30, 2005)
ECBC Employee Named APG’s Civilian Volunteer of the Year
  
MG Nadeau, RDECOM Commanding General, presents Lawrence Oswald, ECBC, with APG's Civilian Volunteer of the Year Award. Also pictured is the crib modified for the wheelchair restricted, expectant mother.
Lawrence Oswald of the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) was named Aberdeen Proving Ground’s Civilian Volunteer of the Year for donating his time and talents modifying a baby crib for a wheelchair restricted, expectant mother. Oswald fabricated a one-piece extension for the crib legs to enable the handicapped mother to get close to the crib by pulling her wheelchair directly under the crib mattress while sitting in a wheelchair. Oswald then modified the crib drop-down side gate to two hinged swing-open doors, with hardware to keep the doors closed. Once the modifications were complete, Oswald took the crib to the expecting mother’s house where he secured the crib to the baseboard of the baby's room to make sure the crib would not tip over when in use due to the higher center of gravity cause by the leg extensions. Oswald has routinely been a solid contributor to the Aberdeen Proving Ground–Edgewood Area Volunteers for Medical Engineering (VME) Chapter. Over the past 10 years he has brought his skills, creative talent, and personal time to helping others. His generous efforts have enabled the expecting mother to care for her newborn child.
(November 8, 2005)
 ECBC Physical Scientist Honored With Meritorious Civilian Service Award
The Secretary of the Army recently honored Monica Heyl, acting team leader of the Mobile Laboratory and Kits Team within the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC), with the prestigious Meritorious Civilian Service Award. The award is the second-highest Department of the Army honorary award, and is given in recognition of outstanding performance and significant contributions to the Department of Defense. While serving as a physical scientist at ECBC, Heyl established herself as a recognized national and international leader in mobile chemical and biological (CB) laboratory design and development. Her exceptional technical and managerial skills have been sought repeatedly by various government agencies requiring the design and construction of a variety of mobile analytical labs. Heyl’s most recent success is the development of CB Laboratory Systems for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Though an Interagency Agreement, ECBC developed two mobile laboratory systems for the FDA. These mobile labs can be placed at ports of entry where food is brought into the United States. While most food samples are sent to remote laboratories for analysis—creating a significant delay before results are available—the mobile labs allow scientists to analyze suspect food samples on site within hours, thus saving time and shortening the chain of custody for samples. The mobile labs are capable of detecting deadly agents such as botulinum and salmonella. Additionally, the labs can detect many chemical agents that may be added to foods. With global terrorism now a constant threat, these mobile labs are an important weapon in combating terror’s deadly force. During a ceremony on October 12, 2005, Mr. Jim Zarzycki, technical director of ECBC, presented the award to Heyl. Her achievements reflect great credit upon herself, the US Army Materiel Command, and the Department of the Army.
(October 25, 2005)
 The International Society of Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology (ISRTP) Workshop
ECBC is sponsoring a workshop,"Progress and Barriers to Incorporating Alternative Toxicological Methods in the U.S.", to be held November 17 & 18, 2005 at the Marriott Waterfront Hotel in Baltimore, MD. The objective of this workshop is to explore progress to date in implementing new, revised and alternative toxicological test methods across regulatory evaluation frameworks and decision-making programs in the U.S., identify barriers to progress and explore potential bridges to facilitate overcoming such barriers.
These barriers may be technical, regulatory, economic or societal.
To register please visit: AGENDA & REGISTRATION.
(October 18, 2005)
 
ECBC held a Dedication Ceremony for the Advanced Chemistry Laboratory.
On Friday October 7th, ECBC held a Dedication Ceremony of the Dr. Edward J. Poziomek Advanced Chemistry Laboratory (ACL). Guest speakers included the Honorable Paul S. Sarbanes. The ACL is the nation's newest and most advanced chemical research facility. The laboratory has been specifically engineered for work with the world's most super toxic materials and will enhance ECBC's ability to counter the evolving threat of chemical warfare and the use of chemical agents by terrorists.
(October 10, 2005)
 The Joint Project Manager for Decontamination is hosting the
Joint Service Chemical and Biological Decontamination Conference (Decon 2005) at the Hilton El Conquistador Golf and Tennis Resort in Tucson, Arizona, December 12-15, 2005.
For more information, please visit www.decon-conference.com
(September 22, 2005)
An ECBC Toxicologist was honored for Volunteer Service in the ECybermission Program.
ECBC scientist Steve Anthony received a certificate of appreciation signed by Maryland Governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. recognizing him for his contributions to the Ecybermission Cyberguide program and for his service as a mentor. The program, which serves as a national mentoring program for students in grades sixth-ninth, inspires students to their interests in science, math and technology. Mentors participate in on-line discussions to guide students effectively design scientific projects and perform necessary experiments to test hypotheses. All projects are submitted and further evaluated to determine the national winners. For more information visit www.ecybermission.com
(August 15, 2005)
  
Dr. George Famini, International Programs Division Chief of the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC), has been honored by the U.S. Army Materiel Command (AMC) by being named one of the Ten Outstanding AMC Personnel of the Year. Dr. Famini received the award in a ceremony held July 25 at ECBC's offices on the Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Edgewood, Md.
This prestigious award recognizes outstanding work accomplishments that not only have been highly exemplary and an inspiration to others, but has significantly contributed to the Command's missions and operational responsibilities. In addition, it identifies and recognizes AMC personnel who, in the daily performance of their assigned duties, have come to stand out as model workers among their fellow employees, and could be considered a representative of the ideal AMC employee.
Dr. Famini was recognized for his role involving directing, developing, and overseeing international cooperative activities. Dr. Famini has been instrumental in establishing formal laboratory-to-laboratory collaborations with key allies in Asia, North America, and Europe. Dr. Famini has actively supported cooperative initiatives within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) by engaging key allies through bilateral discussions and exchanges. In particular, a new formal relationship has been established with Norway and another reestablished with Poland. ECBC was the first Army laboratory to hold formal exchanges with Poland; this extension represents a successful 10 year relationship.
Dr. Famini's renowned knowledge and outstanding management skills have ensured the success of several multinational standardizations and cooperative research and development programs. He had dedicated himself to keeping Army research labs integrated into the global CB defense community to ensure that our warfighters have access to the very best technologies available worldwide.
(July 25, 2005)
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On Monday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) awarded ECBC scientists, engineers and specialists Certificates of Appreciation for their work designing and building mobile laboratory suites for FDA. The unique mobile laboratories, which include chemical trailers, biological trailers and administrative units, are being used in support of FDA efforts to ensure safety of food coming into the U.S. and will be deployed along border areas throughout the U.S. so that food can be inspected as it is transported into the country. ECBC provided field hardware, methodology and training to FDA operators, delivering comprehensive, turn key packages deployable to remote regions with little or no logistical support and capable of producing data that withstand the most intensive and critical review. The trailers were developed under the requirements of ISO 9001/IEC Guide 17025. 
Engineers demonstrate ECBC's reverse engineering and rapid prototyping capability to visitors from South America.