“The Gold Medal is the highest honor that the Society bestows. It is awarded annually in recognition of outstanding engineering or scientific accomplishments in optics, electro-optics, or photographic technologies or applications. The 2006 Gold Medal is awarded to Duncan T. Moore, for his numerous contributions and innovative research in optical engineering as well as his significant contributions in the field of gradient index systems.

In the 1970s and 1980s Moore and his research group performed pioneering engineering work on the science, manufacture, and application of gradient optical systems. This included the development of ray-trace algorithms, aberration theory, material modeling, and actual fabrication of gradient materials. Ultimately, this led to the formation of Gradient Lens Corporation.

Moore is a renaissance person, gifted in many areas. Under his chairmanship, the Hubble Space Telescope Independent Review Panel determined the exact adjustment for the incorrectly built telescope. This adjustment has not changed over time and has allowed spectacular images from this scientific wonder to enrich the world. Moore is also recognized as an outstanding teacher who is consistently sought out as mentor and advisor.

Moore's distinguished career in teaching, research, and service to the community has many highlights. He supervised more than thirty Ph.D. dissertations and more than 20 M.S. theses, received tenure, was named to the Rudolf and Hilda Kingslake Professorship, served six years as director of the Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester, and served three years as dean of the university's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. He was President of the Optical Society of America in 1996, elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 1998 and has served as Associate Director for Technology in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy from 1998 until 2001. He was also awarded 15 patents, published nearly 90 technical papers , gave more than 200 presentations, and was named a Fellow of both SPIE and OSA.

In recognition for his numerous contributions and innovative research in optical engineering as well as his significant contributions in the field of gradient systems index, SPIE is proud to present the Gold Medal of the Society to Duncan T. Moore.

©2006 University of Rochester