2023 Rossing Prize in Acoustics Education

Scott D. Sommerfeldt has been named recipient of the Acoustical Society of America Rossing Prize in Acoustics Education. The Prize will be presented at the spring 2024 meeting of the Acoustical Society of America (ASA) to be held in Ottawa, Canada.

Scott Sommerfeldt received B. Mus. Ed. and M.Sc. degrees from Brigham Young University and a Ph.D. from The Pennsylvania State University. He served as a professor at Brigham Young University (BYU) since 1995 and is currently Retired Professor of Physics.  His service also included Chair (2003-07) of the BYU Department of Physics and Astronomy and Dean (2007-17) of the BYU College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences.

His research interests include active and passive noise control, as well as energy-based acoustics. He is the author of over seventy peer reviewed journal publications and more than seventy conference proceedings papers and has also presented or been coauthor on twenty-four presentations on education topics at ASA meetings. In the field of active noise control, Scott has pioneered the use of acoustic energy density to attenuate enclosed sound fields, as well as a weighted sum of spatial gradients technique to attenuate the acoustic power radiated from vibrating structures. He has also been working on developing a method of using the radiation resistance matrix associated with a vibrating structure to determine the sound power radiated from the structure.

Scott Sommerfeldt has been an active member of the ASA’s Committee on Education in Acoustics since 1994. He served as an ASA Representative to American Institute of Physics (AIP) Liaison Committee on Education from 2002-2008 and as the ASA Representative to AIP Physics Resources Policy Committee from 2009-2012. He was the Advisor to the BYU Student Chapter of the ASA from 1996-2004 and 2020-2023. He developed new courses at BYU including a course covering active noise control and structural acoustics, as well as an advanced undergraduate course for science and engineering students covering the fundamentals of acoustics and noise control concepts.

Scott Sommerfeldt is a Fellow of the ASA and has held leadership positions in the Society including Vice President (2018-19), Member of the Executive Council (2009-12), Chair of the Technical Committee on Structural Acoustics and Vibration (2000-03) and the Technical Committee on Noise (2012-15). He has organized numerous special sessions at ASA meetings, and served as an Associate Editor for JASA Express Letters. He was also the General Chair and General Co-Chair for the ASA meetings in Salt Lake City in 2007 and 2016, respectively. In 2020 he was awarded the ASA Silver Medal in Noise.

Wallace Clement Sabine Medal

Peter D’Antonio has been named recipient of the Wallace Clement Sabine Medal “for contributions to the theory, design and application of acoustic diffusers.” The award will be presented at the spring 2024 ASA meeting to be held in Ottawa, Canada.

Peter D’Antonio received a B.S. from St. John’s University and a Ph.D. from the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn. He has specialized in a wide variety of scientific disciplines including spectroscopy, x-ray, neutron and electron diffraction, electron and atomic force microscopy, software development, and architectural acoustics. He retired from the Naval Research Lab in Washington, DC, in 1996 after 29 years of research in diffraction physics.

As a musician and recording engineer, Dr. D’Antonio maintained a separate concurrent career in the music industry and developed a widely adopted design for modern recording control rooms at Underground Sound, Largo, Maryland, utilizing a temporal and spatial reflection free zone and reflection phase grating diffusors. In 1983, Dr. D’Antonio founded RPG Diffusor Systems, Inc. to design, test, manufacture and commercialize acoustical diffusers and absorbers to expand the acoustical palette. In 2016, he sold the company after more than three decades of successful innovation and operation.

He pioneered the sound diffusion industry, developed the diffusion coefficient methodology enshrined as ISO-17497-2 in 2012, co-authored three editions of the reference text “Acoustic Absorbers and Diffusers: Theory, Design and Application,” was Adjunct Professor of Acoustics at the Cleveland Institute of Music, founded the Chesapeake Acoustic Research Institute, LLC, and has created and implemented a wide range of novel number-theoretic, fractal and optimized diffusing and absorbing surfaces, for which he holds many trademarks and patents. Dr. D’Antonio is a Fellow of the Acoustical Society of America and the Audio Engineering Society and a 2012 Inductee into the music industry’s TECnology Hall of Fame. 

Silver Medal in Acoustical Oceanography

Stan E. Dosso has been named recipient of the Silver Medal in Acoustical Oceanography “for contributions to Bayesian inference methods in ocean acoustics and marine geophysics.” The award will be presented at the spring 2024 ASA meeting to be held in Ottawa, Canada.

Stan Dosso received B.Sc. (Hons.) and M.Sc. degrees in physics and applied mathematics from the University of Victoria and a Ph.D. in geophysics from the University of British Columbia. Since 1995 he has served as professor in the School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, University of Victoria, and was Director of the School from 2016-2021.

He received the Faculty of Science Teaching Excellence Award in 2006. Prior to joining the University, he was a Defence Scientist in Arctic Acoustics at the Defence Research Establishment Pacific for 5 years. Stan’s research centers on quantitative, probabilistic methods of estimating geophysical models from observed data, with primary interests in seabed geoacoustic inversion, ocean-acoustic source localization, marine geophysics, and earthquake seismology. In this work he has supervised over forty-five graduate students, a number of whom have gone on to prominent careers in acoustics or geophysics, and authored/coauthored almost two hundred papers in referred journals and over one hundred conference proceedings.

Stan Dosso is a Fellow of the ASA and a member of the Canadian Acoustical Association (CAA) and was awarded the Medwin Prize in Acoustical Oceanography by the ASA in 2014. He has contributed to the ASA through his service as Vice President and President of the Society, as Technical Program Chair of the spring 2005 meeting and General Chair of the fall 2018 meeting, as Associate Editor for the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, and as co-organizer of the ASA Schools, biennial educational and networking events for graduate students and young professionals. He has contributed to the CAA serving as President, member of the Board of Directors, and General Chair of three CAA meetings.

Dalhousie University – Dept. of Oceanography

Location: Halifax, Canada

Post-doctoral research position in passive acoustic sensing of ocean pH

Department of Oceanography
Dalhousie University

We are seeking candidates who will conduct research on the acoustic quantification of ocean pH from mobile and stationary passive acoustic monitoring systems. Candidates should be familiar with the physics of underwater sound propagation and contemporary modeling methods.  Candidates should have expertise in acoustic data processing, array signal processing, and inversion methods.  Strong programming and computing, data analysis and visualization, and analytical mathematical skills are necessary. A publication record that demonstrates these abilities is an asset.

This research will be carried out under the supervision of Dr. David Barclay in coordination with a multi-disciplinary team at Dalhousie University and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

A Ph.D. in oceanography, physics, engineering, or a related discipline is required.

Please send C.V. along with two references to dbarclay@dal.ca

More information on research in the lab can be found at http://noise.phys.ocean.dal.ca

The position will be open until filled, with employment beginning as soon as August 1st, 2023.

This position will follow the Dalhousie University Employment Equity Policy: https://www.dal.ca/dept/hres/equity—inclusion/employment_equity/hiring_for_diversity.html

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute

Location: San Diego, CA

Position Title:  Animal Behavior & Senses Postdoctoral Research Associate (PRA)

Job Classification:  Full-Time/Exempt
Salary: $65,000-$72,000 (commensurate with qualifications), plus benefits
Location:  San Diego, California
Application Deadline: The position will remain open until filled; however, to ensure full consideration, applications should be submitted by COB July 30, 2023.

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) is accepting applications for the following position within its Animal Behavior and Senses Program in southern California.

Institute Description: Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) is a non-profit, marine science organization that conducts research related to its mission of promoting ocean conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. Founded in 1963, HSWRI operates two research facilities in California: one in San Diego's Mission Bay and the other in Carlsbad, in addition to a facility in Melbourne Beach, Florida. The Institute's research covers a wide range of topics, including marine mammal behavior, physiology, and health, as well as the development of innovative aquaculture techniques for cultivating marine plants and animals. HSWRI' also researches oceanographic processes and the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. The goal of HSWRI's research is to inform policy decisions and promote sustainable management of the ocean's resources.

Program Description:  The Animal Behavior & Senses Program at HSWRI (ABS)has been conducting research on animal bioacoustics (sound perception and production) since the 1970s.  HSWRI seeks scientific solutions to complex challenges facing marine life, including leveraging its access to animals in the SeaWorld parks to do research that benefits marine life.  ABS is known for research on cetacean communication and the effects of noise, including helping to set guidelines for marine mammal exposure to anthropogenic noise.  Future goals include research on animal behavioral adaptations to varying acoustic environments, using underwater audio and video tools for animal behavior and occurrence monitoring, and quantifying anthropogenic influences on animal behavior.

Job Summary: PRAs work under the direct supervision of a HSWRI Senior Research Biologist (SRB), in this case the Chief Science Officer (CSO). The primary focus of the position will be to develop state-of-the art hardware and software to collect and process data on animal behavior, sound production, and acoustic environments.  The position will include work on animals in both managed care and under free-ranging conditions, with a focus on marine mammals, birds and fishes.  Although possible research approaches will be suggested at the start of the post-doctoral position, the associate will be expected to contribute substantially to the design and conduct of the work. This position will be funded for 2 years (upon favorable annual reviews), with potential for advancement to Research Scientist depending on successful completion of project goals, contributions to publications, and grant and fundraising activities during the term of the position.

Responsibilities:

1. Research 30%

• a. Conducting research at the level of a Research Scientist, consistent with the HSWRI mission, ABS research goals, and the candidate’s research interests.
• b. Coordinating intern and graduate student support as needed.
• c. Developing and maintaining relationships with staff at SeaWorld or other oceanaria for in-park data collection.
• d. Assisting in updating software and hardware to collect data on animal behavior, acoustic environments, and human activities.

2. Preparation of Publications 30%

• a. Assist in analysis of data and preparation of publications for ongoing projects; the candidate will have input into the selection of the topic(s).

3. Proposal Development & Fundraising 20%

• a. Work collaboratively with the other researchers and the HSWRI Development team to increase unrestricted and restricted financial support for Animal Behavior and Senses projects.
• b. Identify and cultivate potential supporters and donors.
• c. Communicate the mission of the laboratory and its achievements to a variety of stakeholders, including decision-makers and the general public.

4. Representing Research Programs and Outreach 10%

• a. Prepare and present results in professional venues such as meetings or lecture presentations at local universities.
• b. Represent research programs through participation in outreach and development activities.

5. Assist in Maintenance of ABS Bioacoustics Laboratory 10%

• a. Assist in equipment maintenance and calibration
• b. Assist in identifying needs for the laboratory and preparing budgets

Qualifications:  

• PhD in a relevant science discipline (Biology, Oceanography, Zoology, etc.), preferably within the last 5 years.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the use of standard word processing and spreadsheet programs.
• Experience collecting and processing video of animal behavior; research experience in using state-of-the-art software to process video data desirable.
• Experience with developing systems for data collection and using and maintaining equipment for research in acoustics.
• Knowledge of software for manipulating and processing sound.
• Proven track record of successful scientific project completion and publication.
• Ability to work in oceanarium environment and in the field.
• Prior experience with community outreach, and fund raising/grant writing.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Must possess mobility to work in laboratory and office buildings and outdoor settings, to use standard laboratory and field equipment, to use a computer, and to travel to various sites within and away from Southern California.
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech to communicate effectively in person and over the telephone with accommodation.
• Capacity to listen to and process acoustic data.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds with accommodation.
• Work areas may include wet and windy environments subject to weather exposure and at times may include working on vessels.  Indoor activities include office work and bench laboratory work.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driving license, a reliable personal vehicle, and insurability to drive an HSWRI vehicle.
• May include out-of-state travel (e.g., HSWRI Florida Laboratory, field sites, professional meetings) based on scientific activities.
• Support a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment where all staff, volunteers and guests are respected and valued.
• Employment is contingent on successful engagement in the HSWRI COVID-19 Vaccination program (fully vaccinated with documented proof or approved exception/deferral).
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

At Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, your base wage is only a portion of your overall compensation package. We are proud to offer a full benefits package, which may include:

• Health insurance benefits options, including medical, prescription, vision, dental, life, and short- and long-term disability.
• Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses
• Retirement Plan options
• Paid time off for all regular FT team members (starting at 10 annual days each sick/vacation and 12 holidays)
• Employee Assistance Program – Confidential professional counseling, financial, and legal assistance provided at no charge to Team Members and immediate family members

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment where all trustees, staff, volunteers, collaborators and guests feel respected and valued regardless of gender, age, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation or identity, disability, or education. We’re committed to being nondiscriminatory and providing equal opportunities for employment, volunteering, representation, and advancement in all areas of our work. Hubbs-SeaWorld ResearchInstitute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

How to apply: Please send a completed application, cover letter and resume to hr@hswri.org

ASA Statement on Diversity and Inclusiveness in the Field of Acoustics

In light of the recent US Supreme Court rulings regarding college admissions and the unclear impact on professional societies, we as leaders in the Acoustical Society of America (ASA) feel it is imperative to reaffirm our commitment to enhancing the diversity and inclusiveness of our scientific community. We restate our belief that diversity enriches the field of acoustics. In fact, the importance of diverse perspectives and ensuring an inclusive environment cannot be overstated and is largely supported by empirical evidence. We invite our members to engage with our diversity-focused initiatives by joining with the Committee to Improve Racial Diversity and Inclusivity (CIRDI) to remove barriers and create inclusive environments for full participation in the field of acoustics.

In closing, we restate ASA’s core values, which include: “Attraction, development, encouragement, education, and mentoring of current and future generations of acousticians from diverse backgrounds.” We invite you to view our complete diversity policy and core values.

The Officers of the Acoustical Society of America
5 July 2023