About the author Edward Henry Dowdye, Jr.

The author was born in Washington, DC and has B.S. degrees in Mathematics, Electronics Technology with further studies in Physics from Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia. He has the degree of Diplom-Atomphysik (Atomic Physics) from Physikalisches Institut der Universität Heidelberg, Germany, supported by the German Academic Exchange {Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst Bonn-Bad Godesberg}.  He did his research in experimental atomic physics, specifically in the area of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance where he used techniques of optical pumping {Kernresonanzmessung durch optisches Pumpen} on free atoms and ions in vapor form confined in an optical resonance vessel. He did further studies in Astronomy and Astrophysics at Heidelberg. The author is multilingual with fluency in German and Spanish and with a knowledge of conversational French. He has also instructed Experimental Physics and has mentored German graduate students while pursuing his degree at Universität Heidelberg.

The author has worked extensively in the area of communication systems engineering, dealing with the propagation of electromagnetic radiation, high data rate satellite uplink and cross link relay communication systems. He worked in Government and Aerospace for a number of years and later returned to academia. While working as an instructor of Physics, he was awarded a grant from the Preparing Future Faculty Program at Howard University, in Washington, DC, where he obtained the Ph.D. in Laser Spectroscopy Physics at the Laser Spectroscopy Laboratory, supported by the Center for the Study of Terrestrial and Extraterrestrial Atmospheres.

The author's broad experience in the academic environment includes the instruction of Physics, Engineering and Computer Sciences at Lincoln University and Cheyney University in Pennsylvania, at Marymount University in Northern Virginia, at Southeastern University and at Howard University in Washington, DC. 

The author currently works at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, dealing with the development and testing of satellite born laser systems, special laser optics and the life-time performance of various non-linear crystals used for the generation of specific harmonics of a high energy Neodymium YAG Laser system.  The non-linear crystals will ultimately be used as components of the emitters of the satellite probes designed to measure atmospheric particulates as well as to make precision measurements on the changes in the levels of polar icecaps due to environmental warming effects.

The author is also active and involved in the spiritual as well as the physical aspects.  He is a member of the Florida Avenue Baptist Church in Washington, DC.

The author is a devoted role model and mentor for future scientists.