Alumni Award Recipient

Award: 2008 Distinguished Achievement Award

Achievements: Recognized as an international expert on the biological effects of radiofrequency energy, Dr. Joe Elder (63C) was the principal author of the EPA document that served as the standard in his field. He also had a prominent role in the 2005 revision of the radiofrequency safety standard developed by the IEEE International Committee on Electromagnetic Safety. Dr. Elder received the EPA’s highest award for scientific and technological achievement in 1984 as co-author of a scientific paper that made an important contribution to our understanding of radiofrequency exposure and its effects on the brain. In addition, the EPA assessment of the national weather radar system was done under his leadership. A three-time recipient of the EPA bronze medal for commendable service, Dr. Elder continues his work at Motorola in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., where he focuses on possible health effects of radiofrequency energy exposure and the development of radiofrequency safety standards. He holds a master’s degree from Vanderbilt University and a doctorate in biophysics from Pennsylvania State University.