I am currently retired in southwest Florida where I can write and sail my 38-foot catamaran, Carpe Diem. I was formerly the Scientific Director of the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, a Dept. of Energy nanoscience research center at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where I also led a materials research group for many years. I also taught at the U. of Tennessee (1985-2000, materials science) and the U. of Oregon (1970-1979, physics). My current interests include sail cruising, writing, and developing skills useful for coastal and bluewater navigation and safety. I especially enjoy reading and learning to better understand humankind's hsitory, as well as the universe and our place in it.