NSRI - Key Persons

Job Titles:

• Research Director
• Research Director for USSTRATCOM Programs for the Nebraska Strategic Research Institute

Adam Carlstrom is the Research Director for USSTRATCOM Programs for the Nebraska Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. In his role, Carlstrom represents NSRI and NU with U.S. Strategic Command, the sponsor of NSRI's University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) status. This status is designated by the Department of Defense to only 15 total institutions of higher education in the country. Carlstrom served three tours at USSTRATCOM, totaling 10 years, providing him deep operational experience of the command's mission objectives and scientific research needs. Immediately prior to his role at NSRI, Carlstrom served for four years as Commander for the Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet, leading the finest Sailors in Navy. He successfully directed the man/train/equip responsibilities for all 15 Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) squadrons in addition to commanding the operational responsibilities for five expeditionary VAQ squadrons. Carlstrom also served a command tour with the World Famous "Black Ravens" of VAQ-135 from 2012-2014. For their performance, the squadron twice earned the Commander, Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet Battle Efficiency Award, the Safety "S" Award, the Commander, Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet Tactical Excellence Award and the Association of Old Crows Naval Aviation Squadron of the Year Award. His shore assignments included duty at the EA-6B Fleet Replacement Squadron and US Strategic Command serving as a Battle Watch Commander, Division Chief and the Executive Officer to the Deputy Commander. His fleet assignments include the "Yellowjackets" of VAQ-138, the "Scorpions" of VAQ-132, the "Patriots" of VAQ-140 and the "Black Ravens" of VAQ-135, making carrier and expeditionary deployments in support of Operations SOUTHERN WATCH, ALLIED FORCE, IRAQI FREEDOM, ENDURING FREEDOM and ODYSSEY DAWN. Additionally, Carlstrom deployed with the Army's 35th Infantry Division in 2009 for Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, executing Electronic Warfare in support of American and Coalition ground forces in counter-Improvised Explosive Device and counter-insurgency operations for multi-national Corps-Iraq. Carlstrom has accumulated over 3,000 flight hours in the EA-6B and EA-18G and was recognized as the COMVAQWINGPAC Training Officer of the Year in 2006. He holds a master's degree in business administration from Grantham University and a bachelor's degree from Miami University of Ohio, where he earned his designation as a Naval Flight Officer. His personal decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (Individual & 6 Strike/Flight) and various personal, campaign, and unit awards. He and his wife, Deanie, reside in Papillion, NE with their two lovely daughters Madelyn and Sophia.

Job Titles:

• Director
• Is Director of Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations

Allen Geist is Director of Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO) Programs at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. Mr. Geist retired from 25 years of service, most recently posted as the chief capabilities and requirements for missile defense and electronic warfare at U.S. Strategic Command. Colonel Geist received his commission through the South Dakota State University ROTC program in 1996. He previously served as the Commander 390th Electronic Combat Squadron, Director of Operations, 390th Electronic Combat Squadron and before that as Director of Operations, 436th training squadron, Dyess AFB, TX. Prior to that he was a, B-1 Instructor and Evaluator WSO, AF Liaison Officer for the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center (NSAWC), USSTRATCOM Staff Officer and Executive Officer to the J8 Capabilities and Requirements Director, and has deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Job Titles:

• Senior Operations Analyst
• Senior Operations Analyst for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska

Chris Luther is a Senior Operations Analyst for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. He performs research and acts as a multi-functional bridge between NSRI's Department of Defense sponsors and University of Nebraska stakeholders and researchers, helping to ensure concepts and requirements are effectively translated. His recent research activities have spanned: Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO) Nuclear weapon system safety and security Nuclear Command Control and Communications (NC3) 21st-century deterrence and assurance Wargaming Planning and leading activities in NSRI's annual strategic deterrence internship program Luther served for 22 years as an officer and aviator in the United States Air Force, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 2017. During his career, he worked and led in a variety of related military mission areas that include Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Electronic Warfare (EW), joint air operations planning and undergraduate/graduate-level flying training. Starting as an RC-135 Electronic Warfare Officer in 1997, he flew numerous sensitive reconnaissance operations around the globe and participated in most major U.S. combat operations through 2008. For actions on the opening night of Operation DESERT FOX in 1998, he became a member of the Air Force's Reconnaissance Crew of the Year in 1998. In addition to his electronic warfare flying specialty, he also spent an assignment as an Operations Officer and Strike Advisor on U.S. Strategic Command's Nuclear Command and Control (NC2) team followed by a tour in South Korea as the Deputy Chief of the Combat Plans Division of the 607th Air Operations Center. An interesting highlight from his Air Force career occurred in 2014 when he suddenly found himself leading a 39-hour effort that involved a large swath of military and local first responder personnel as well as federal, state, and local government stakeholders, working with NSRI and University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) researchers to safely receive the nation's third Ebola patient into Offutt Air Force Base under the scrutiny of the national media. After the successful transfer to UNMC's Biocontainment Unit, the Air Force subsequently distributed Offutt's plan and lessons learned to other military bases and countries to use as a baseline to help ensure pandemics didn't inadvertently emerge from the movement of patients with highly contagious diseases. Luther received his bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Cincinnati and a master's degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma. He recently completed a certificate in systems engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and periodically takes key technology-themed classes for continued professional development and awareness.

Job Titles:

• Director for Technical Collections, Flies Drone During Test at University of Nebraska - Lincoln.
• Research Director for Special Programs

David Roberts is the Research Director for Special Programs at the National Strategic Research Institute at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. In his role with NSRI, Roberts is responsible for providing leadership and support for research across the broad array of elements related to chemical and biological defense. He oversees the execution of biological defense programs and works extensively with the Intelligence Community to support several mission sets in the area of applied science and basic research and development. Before his appointment at NSRI, Roberts worked in both clinical and research and development industries with MRIGlobal and Laboratory Corporation of America (Labcorp). He has more than 25 years of experience as a scientist, principal investigator and program manager and more than ten years of experience with mobile laboratories, including BSL-3 level Tier 1 Select Agents. While at MRIGlobal, Roberts was the BSL-3 lab manager and the diagnostic section manager, program manager and principal investigator for MRIGlobal's Diagnostic Division. He successfully sold and executed more than $3 million in annual commercial revenue and participated in more than 15 funded clinical trials in support of FDA 510(k) and Conformite Europeenne mark submissions. Between 2014 and 2018 Roberts participated in the Ebola response effort in Moyamba and Lakka, Sierra Leone, Conakry, Guinea and Monrovia, Liberia. He performed as Alpha and Team 1 lead for a Ebola diagnostic mobile laboratory funded by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). In these roles, he co-led preliminary laboratory and workflow designs to enhance West Africa's ability to process samples that significantly increased daily throughput and reduced reporting of results from more than 24 hours down to less than four hours. David Roberts, NSRI director for technical collections, flies drone during test at University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Roberts served as a visiting scientist in 2015 in Monrovia, Liberia, as the Ebola diagnostics technical lead and laboratory manager for the Liberia Institute of Biomedical Research (LIBR), where he provided confirmatory results for suspected Ebola positive U.S. expats and confirmation for local nationals. Additional responsibilities included serving as a technical mentor and trainer for local nationals on critical lesson plans for reagent preparation, Polymerase Chain Reaction theory, data analysis and quality management. From 2003 through 2011 Roberts performed as laboratory manager for the Guardian Regional BioAnalysis Facility on board Camp Lejeune North Carolina. He managed laboratory staff, operating seven days a week, 365 days a year within the biological warfare environmental detection laboratory.

Job Titles:

• Director
• Editor
• Director of Strategic Deterrence Programs

Dr. Adam Lowther is Director of Strategic Deterrence Programs at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. In his role, Dr. Lowther brings forward deep expertise in nuclear deterrence, multi-domain operations and the nuclear programs of Russia and China to catalyze, execute and convene projects that support USSTRATCOM's No. 1 mission - strategic deterrence. Prior to joining NSRI, Dr. Lowther served as the first director of the department of multi-domain operations (MDO) at the Army Management Staff College (AMSC) where he led efforts to develop MDO education programs in collaboration with an interdisciplinary faculty of engineers and scientists. In order to stand up AMSC's MDO department, Dr. Lowther left U.S. Army's School of Advanced Military Studies where he taught 21st-century conflict to senior service college students in the advanced strategic leadership studies program as a professor of political science. Previously, he served as the founding director of the School of Advanced Nuclear Deterrence Studies, Kirtland AFB. He led the school's academic, professional development and research efforts. Dr. Lowther also served as the director of the Center for Academic and Professional Journals at the Air Force Research Institute (AFRI), Maxwell AFB, where he oversaw publication of the Air Force's professional journals: Strategic Studies Quarterly and Air and Space Power Journal (English, Spanish, Chinese, French). Prior to assuming this position, Dr. Lowther was a research professor at AFRI where he led and participated in a number of studies directed by the Chief of Staff of the Air Force. Dr. Lowther is the author or editor of many books and is widely published in both popular, professional and academic journals. He has been published in outlets such as the New York Times, Boston Globe, Joint Force Quarterly, Strategic Studies Quarterly and a variety of other journals. Early in his career, Dr. Lowther served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS RAMAGE (DDG-61). He also served at CINCUSNAVEUR-London and with NMCB 17.

Job Titles:

• Deputy Director
• Deputy Director of Hazard Mitigation

Dr. Aimee Ketner is the Deputy Director of Hazard Mitigation at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center of U.S. Strategic Command. Since 2018, Dr. Ketner has led and supported NSRI's efforts to develop technologies for the defense against chemical and biological warfare. She has led hazard mitigation research, development, testing and evaluation efforts, supporting the defense against biological warfare agents for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency and other government agencies within the DOD. Dr. Ketner has also provided scientific and engineering support to multiple efforts in chemical and biological defense at NSRI. Before joining NSRI, Dr. Ketner worked at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren, Virginia, where she was a lead engineer and principal investigator in chemical, biological and radiological defense. She led a multidisciplinary team, focusing on biological warfare agent defeat research with direct applicability to warfighter capability gaps for the Department of Defense. Dr. Ketner started her career at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division in the Chemical and Biological Defense Research and Experimentation Branch as a chemical engineer. She performed materials research and testing, field testing of counter improvised explosive devices (IEDs) for the Joint Counter Radio-Controlled IED Electronic Warfare program and aided in the development of filtration and barrier performance models for the Joint Expeditionary Collective Protection System Performance Model. During her time at Dahlgren, Dr. Ketner also held many positions in support of STEM outreach; volunteering her time for as a mentor, serving as the coordinator for the annual STEM outreach summer academy and serving as a STEM outreach coordinator for an in-school outreach program tailored toward middle school students. While at Dahlgren Dr. Ketner received several awards and recognitions, including the Human Awareness Award in 2012 and the Dr. Charles J. Cohen Award of Excellence for Science and Technology in 2014. Dr. Ketner received her doctorate in chemical and biomolecular engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park. Her research focused on the development and design of Photorheological fluids. She has presented at numerous technical conferences and authored several technical papers. She received her bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Job Titles:

• Associate Executive Director
• Associate Executive Director for Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Programs

Dr. Christopher Yeaw is Associate Executive Director for Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Programs at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command.

Job Titles:

• Associate Professor

Job Titles:

• Associate Professor
• Science and Technology Advisor for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska

Dr. Joshua Santarpia is Science and Technology Advisor for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. Dr. Santarpia is an associate professor of microbiology and pathology and program director for the biodefense and health security graduate programs at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He is also an adjunct faculty member in biological systems engineering at University of Nebraska-Lincoln where he leads the Collaborative Biosecurity Laboratory, a partnership between the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and NSRI. He also directs NSRI's independent research and development program and NSRI Fellows program.

Job Titles:

• Associate Executive Director for CWMD Allied Programs

Dr. Neal Woollen is Associate Executive Director for CWMD Allied Programs at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command.

Job Titles:

• Associate Professor of Business at Nebraska Wesleyan University
• Strategic Advisor for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska

Dr. Tami Thompson is the Strategic Advisor for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. Dr. Thompson is an associate professor of business at Nebraska Wesleyan University (NWU), currently on sabbatical. Prior to her leave, she was the chair of the business, accounting and economics department and the M.B.A. program director at NWU. Dr. Thompson developed several project-based learning courses at undergraduate and graduate levels designed to serve local community organizations while allowing students to explore real-world business problems. This experiential learning pedagogy is designed to focus on students' critical thinking, collaboration and communication skills. She holds a doctorate degree in organization and management, a master's degree in business administration and a bachelor's degree in statistics. In addition, Dr. Thompson is a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and an Everything DiSC Workplace Facilitator. After receiving her commission through the Reserve Officer Training Corps from Iowa State University in 1987, Colonel Thompson was stationed at Tyndall A.F.B., FL, as an Intelligence Officer. In 1997, she began working full-time in the Nebraska Air National Guard as an Intelligence Officer with the 155th Operations Support Flight. Her military career covered a variety of assignments, including command of the 170th Operations Support Squadron, 155th Medical Group, and 155th Mission Support Group. She became the first female and non-rated Operations Support Squadron Commander in the Air National Guard when she took over as commander of the 170th Operations Support Squadron in 2007. In 2011, she moved into the 155th Medical Group Commander position, where she led a CERF-P (Chemical, Biological, Radiological/Nuclear, and Explosive Enhanced Response Force Package) medical unit for the state of Nebraska. In 2014, she was assigned as the 155th Mission Support Group Commander, responsible for managing and developing over 400 airmen in logistics, information technology, contracting, security, personnel, and civil engineering.

Job Titles:

• Director
• Director of Medical Countermeasures

Dr. Terry Thiem is Director of Medical Countermeasures at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. Dr. Thiem supports strategic planning and oversees all research intended to develop therapeutics and pre-exposure prophylactics to counter chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRNE) threat sequelae for the Department of Defense and other federal customers. He is responsible for identifying research opportunities, securing funding, proposal writing and submission, organizing research teams, monitoring research progress and reviewing and approving products and reports. Dr. Thiem earned his undergraduate degree in chemistry and geo-studies from Wayne State College and his doctorate degree in chemistry from the University of Massachusetts-Lowell. He also completed his master's in business administration from Wheeling University. Dr. Thiem retired from the U.S. Air Force in May 2019 after nearly 29 years of military service. Throughout his military career, Dr. Thiem focused primarily on science and technology including three assignments at the Air Force Research Laboratory, a teaching assignment as an Assistant Professor in the Chemistry Department at the U.S. Air Force Academy and as the Chief Scientist and Deputy Commander on the 34th Civil Support Team. In addition, Dr. Thiem completed tours on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon and the Secretary of Defense Corporate Fellowship at SRI International. His final military assignment was as the Air Force Reserve Advisor to the Commander at USSTRATCOM. In addition to his military service, Dr. Thiem has served in multiple positions in the chemical industry including: Director of the Reinhardt Technical Center for Carpenter Company in Richmond, Virginia. Manager for analytical services for Bayer's Rubber Division in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. Research scientist and group leader for Bayer's Polyurethane Division in New Martinsville, West Virginia. Advisory and assistance service for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency's Advanced and Emerging Threats Division, supporting programs developing prophylactic and therapeutic medical countermeasures for nerve agent exposure. Dr. Thiem is both a Secretary of Defense Corporate Fellow and an MIT Seminar XXI Fellow.

Job Titles:

• Research Director
• Director of Chemical Defense
• Research Director for Chemical Defense Programs

Dr. Thomas Mueller is the Research Director for Chemical Defense Programs at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. Dr. Mueller started his career at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL) where he supported countering weapons of mass destruction and homemade explosive efforts for the Department of Defense (DoD) and Other Government Agencies (OGA). His efforts focused on: Identification and pilot plant production of emerging threat simulants RDT&E of novel chemical warfare agent (CWA) defeat technologies Evaluation of homemade explosive production pathways After his tenure at JHU/APL, Dr. Mueller managed the Battelle Memorial Institute Hazardous Materials Research Center where he focused on test and evaluation of personal protective equipment from CWA threats and led research and development efforts for wide area decontamination of CWA for the Joint Program Executive Office. While at Battelle, Dr. Mueller also supported efforts for Bluegrass and Pueblo Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plants. As the Director of Chemical Defense at NSRI, Dr. Mueller focuses on the development and execution of CWMD efforts for the DoD and OGA. Dr. Mueller received a doctorate in chemistry from the University of California, Irvine, focused on synthetic chemistry of lanthanide, actinide and transition metal organometallic compounds. He received his bachelor's degree in chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Job Titles:

• Student

Job Titles:

• Associate Executive Director / Operations
• Associate Executive Director of Operations for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska

John Tencer is Associate Executive Director of Operations for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska. Tencer supports the Executive Director in leading and facilitating the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the institute in achieving its mission and strategic objectives. This includes the contracting processes of NSRI with an emphasis on responsiveness and efficiency. Tencer assisted in the establishment of NSRI of 2012 and joined as its first Director of Contracts, after serving 21 years of active duty as an enlisted U.S. Marine and as an officer in the U.S. Navy Supply Corps. Throughout his military career he served in staff and operational assignments, both afloat and ashore, in procurement, logistics, readiness, contracting and fiscal accountability. Tencer earned Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act Level III certification in contracting and was selected as a member of the Defense Acquisition Corps in 2010. He received his bachelor's degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a master's of business administration from Georgetown University.

Job Titles:

• Director / Communications & PR
• Director of Communications & Public Relations for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska

Katelyn Ideus is Director of Communications & Public Relations for the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. In her role, Ideus guides and executes NSRI's strategic communications, producing, stimulating and delivering stories and information about NSRI and NU scientists and strategists as well as the innovations they create and the solutions they find in pursuit of strategic deterrence and countering weapons of mass destruction. Key deliverables include but are not limited to: nsri.nebraska.edu 2022 biennial report 2020 biennial report #NSRI10 campaign celebrating a decade of the institute in fall 2022 Numerous videos Ideus previously led communications for the Rural Futures Institute at the University of Nebraska and the University of Nebraska's online education initiatives. She has also worked in internal communications at Nelnet, Inc., and as a physician communications specialist for Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center in St. Louis, Mo., engaging St. Louis University faculty physicians and community hospitals and physicians. Ideus holds a master's degree in integrated media communications and a bachelor's degree in news editorial and broadcast journalism, both from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism & Mass Communications.

Job Titles:

• Associate Executive Director
• Associate Executive Director for Chemical and Biological Defense Programs
• U.S. Navy Medical Service Corps Officer

Marty Sikes is the Associate Executive Director for Chemical and Biological Defense Programs at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. Immediately prior to his appointment at NSRI, Mr. Sikes was on assignment to the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical and Biological Defense (JPEO-CBRND) via the Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA). In this capacity, Mr. Sikes served as the JPEO-CBRND's Deputy Director for Strategic Stakeholder Engagements where he developed strategies to support U.S. Combatant Commands and other Department of Defense stakeholders with their material and non-material CBRN capability requirements. Additionally, Mr. Sikes established and managed collaborative partnerships and opportunities, facilitating the execution of cost-effective, innovative and interoperable capabilities and initiatives with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and other interagency partners across the CWMD/CBRN mission space. Mr. Sikes has an extensive background in leading CBRN Defense and Security Cooperation programs with the DOD, the U.S. Interagency and International Partners in more than twenty countries throughout Eastern Europe, Africa, Southeast and Southwest Asia. From 2010 and 2015 he worked onsite in the Republic of Korea (ROK) as the first JPEO-CBRND Liaison Officer to U.S. Forces Korea (USFK), working closely with senior leaders from USFK, the U.S Embassy and the ROK Government. While in Korea Mr. Sikes led the design and development of a Biological Surveillance Systems Integration Laboratory and played a lead role in implementing USFK's integrated biological defense capability and establishing a Whole of Government Biological Response Framework with the Republic of Korea. Upon completion of his assignment in the ROK, Mr. Sikes was redirected to establish and serve as the first JPEO-CBRND Liaison Officer to U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) in Stuttgart Germany. He played a key role in identifying critical capability gaps facilitated by the design and execution of a comprehensive CBRN capability assessment of the USEUCOM Area of Operations. Mr. Sikes is a former member of the Principal Professional Staff at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. His knowledge and experience include strategy and concept development, systems integration and evaluation of chemical and biological defense systems and information management tools used to provide situational awareness and decision support from All Hazard and Health Security incidents. Mr. Sikes is a retired U.S. Navy Medical Service Corps Officer with specializations in public health, biological defense and CBRN Medical Preparedness and Operations, serving in a variety of positions leading force health protection, environmental health and all hazard preparedness and response programs. Prior to commissioning, Mr. Sikes served as a Hospital Corpsman with the Fleet Marine Force. Mr. Sikes completed his graduate degree from the University of Laverne, Laverne, Calif. He is a Registered Environmental Health Specialist. He is also a recipient of the distinguished U.S. Navy George C. Hansel Environmental Health Officer of the Year award.

Job Titles:

• Director for Program Operations

Misty Bensman is the Director for Program Operations at the National Strategic Research Institute at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. As director of program operations for chemical and biological defense (CBD) program, Bensman is responsible for the management of the CBD portfolio as well as strategic business development and identification of resources in support of CBD for the U.S. Government. Preceding her appointment to director, Bensman was a NSRI senior scientist from 2018 through 2022. During this time she served as principal investigator on multiple CBRNE-related programs for the Department of Defense and the intelligence community. Bensman also served as program manager for the NSRI CBD portfolio supporting multiple DOD and intelligence community contracts. Prior to joining NSRI Bensman was a lead scientist for the Chemical, Biological, Radiological Concepts and Experimentation Branch at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) from 2011 through 2018. In this role she was responsible for leading multiple DOD projects focused on biological agent defeat and decontamination. She also authored numerous technical reports and publications. From 2008 through 2011, Bensman was a scientist in the Special Technology Integration Branch at NSWCDD where she served as the lead test engineer on asymmetric warfare programs and a procurement and contracts specialist for the branch. During her career at NSWCDD, Bensman received the Dahlgren Honorary Award of Merit for Group Achievement, the Warfare Center Excellence Award for Collaboration and a Letter of Appreciation for support in STEM activities from the Captain of NSWCDD. Bensman has obtained multiple certifications throughout her career including: DAWIA Level 3 Systems Planning, Research, Development, and Engineering-Systems Engineer Level 1 Science and Technology Manager through Defense Acquisition University Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) Certification through Atlantic Management Center, Inc. She holds a master's degree in biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor's degrees in biology and exercise science from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania.

Job Titles:

• Senior Scientist
• Investigator for Multiple
• Senior Scientist for the Chemical and Biological Defense Programs

Mr. Zachary Minter is a Senior Scientist for the Chemical and Biological Defense Programs at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. Minter is a principle investigator for multiple NSRI programs and currently specializes in hazard mitigation research, development, testing and evaluation as well as small- and large-scale bacterial spore production. Other technical areas where he has had the role of PI have been expeditionary collections and sterilization techniques in the medical field. Minter has more than 14 years of experience working in the field of combating weapons of mass destruction (CWMD), specifically chemical and biological defense. He has worked on programs for Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), Combat Casualty Care Research Program (CCCRP) and multiple other agencies within the Department of Defense. Prior to joining NSRI, Minter was a biologist for the CBR Concepts & Experimentation Branch at Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division from 2009 through 2018. He was responsible for managing two biological laboratories that were conducting cutting-edge research pertaining to next-generation decontamination technologies. He also worked on other various programs throughout his career at Dahlgren, including bacterial spore production, test method development and experimental design. Minter has co-authored numerous peer reviewed publications, DTIC reports and ASTM standards. He has also been awarded a patent.

Job Titles:

• Community Leader
• Research Director / Nuclear Enterprise Support
• Research Director for the Nuclear Enterprise Support Program at the National Research Institute

Rhoads helps direct NSRI's nuclear enterprise support program. While NSRI directly supports its sponsor, U.S. Strategic Command, its efforts in nuclear enterprise are broader than STRATCOM. The NES program serves the complementary needs of STRATCOM's federal partners in managing the nation's nuclear deterrent. These partners include the Department of State, other organizations within the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), and the Department of Homeland Security. Rhoads started his career fresh from the University of Nebraska. Coming to NSRI reunites him to his roots. He graduated as a regent's scholar in three years. He studied chemical engineering at the University of Nebraska at Omaha before completing his degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. After graduating, Rhoads was commissioned in the U.S. Navy. He served six years at the headquarters of the prestigious Naval Reactors Program. He excelled there as a systems engineer for nuclear submarines and prototypes. In his civilian career, Rhoads held many managerial and technical positions in what would become NNSA, which stood up in 2000. Some of his accomplishments include: directing the operations of the production facilities in the Nuclear Weapons Complex, costing more than $1 billion per year; acting as the program manager for the acquisition of three different nuclear facility acquisitions, each over $1 billion; performing services as the Chief of Staff in three different organizations; standing up a new office with budget authority over greater than $2 billion a year; acting as a leader in the formulation of nuclear safety and project management standards; leading the Office of Policy In his 38-year federal career, Rhoads rose to the executive level in 2004 and retired at this level 16 years later. After receiving his bachelor's degree at UNL, Rhoads went on to earn master's degrees in nuclear reactor engineering, engineering management and national security strategy. Rhoads met his bride, Stasia, while serving as naval officer in the Washington, DC area. They have made their home there since they married in 1987. They have three grown children and, as of February 2021, three grandchildren. Beyond work life, Rhoads has been a community leader in youth basketball programs and youth ministry. He published a book entitled, The Gospel Truth: You Can't Make This Up, which assesses the historicity of the gospels by employing the systems engineering process, which he has used for nearly forty years. Patrick Rhoads the Research Director for the Nuclear Enterprise Support Program at the National Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command.

Job Titles:

• Director

Thomas DiNanno is Director for Strategic Resiliency and Wargaming within the Strategic Deterrence & Nuclear Programs focus area at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. DiNanno leads the NSRI team in designing, developing and executing world-class wargames, specifically focusing on the areas of strategic deterrence and escalation control should potential adversaries choose to cross the nuclear threshold. He also leads the strategic resiliency portfolio in which NSRI explores how best to respond to strategic escalation and manage the consequences of strategic attacks against the U.S. homeland. Prior to joining NSRI, DiNanno served as a professional staff member on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and as assistant secretary of state of the Arms Control, Verification and Compliance Bureau from 2018 to 2021. In his roles focusing on deterrence and disarmament, he led or managed several dialogues and treaty negotiations on behalf of the U.S. on pressing foreign policy matters, such as: New Start Treaty extension negotiations in Vienna Implementation and oversight of missile defense and space policy U.S. delegation to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in The Hague and the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva He also led U.S. extended deterrence engagement with Japan, the Republic of Korea and Australia and led the 2019 U.S.-China Space Security Dialogue in Beijing. Previously, DiNanno was assistant administrator at the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency where he oversaw nearly $5 billion in counterterrorism programs and national preparedness initiatives that focused on resilient public safety communications systems, national continuity planning and cybersecurity initiatives. DiNanno served as senior fellow for homeland security and critical infrastructure protection at the International Assessment and Strategy Center from 2008 to 2017. From 2004 to 2007, DiNanno served as deputy assistant secretary for critical infrastructure protection at DHS where he was responsible for homeland security initiatives to identify and protect the nation's critical infrastructure, while also implementing executive orders and legislative initiatives. He represented the U.S. in bilateral initiatives involving cooperation between the private sector and government counterterrorism initiatives in Latin America, Canada and Europe. He was also involved in the development and execution of Operation Liberty Shield, the national mobilization of homeland security and public safety resources in the lead-up to Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004. DiNanno served in the White House Office of Homeland Security as director of corporate relations from November 2001 to March 2003 and as senior advisor and acting chief of staff at the U.S. Small Business Administration from February 2001 to October 2001. DiNanno received his master's degree in business and urban planning from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a master's degree in government administration from the University of Pennsylvania and a certificate in international relations from the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy. He received a bachelor's degree in economics and Latin American studies from Middlebury College in Vermont.

Job Titles:

• Research Director / Field Operations & Training
• Research Director for Field Operations and Training

Wes Carter is the Research Director for Field Operations and Training at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command. Carter leads NSRI's All Hazards Response Training program, which provides training on all WMD disciplines to numerous USG agencies as well as providing support to several activities at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Carter played a significant role in the design and development of the Containerized Bio Containment Unit (CBCS), which is a next-generation patient transport system for moving highly contaminated personnel to specialized treatment facilities. The CBCS is in use by the U.S. Department of State. He has also been an integral part of the Department of Defense's Air Mobility Commands Transportation Isolation System (TIS), which is the DoD platform for patient transport of highly contaminated personnel. Carter served with the Department of Defense for 21 years during which time his primary focus was WMD training and response. He formerly served as Chief of Emergency Management for United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) and Director of a Counterterrorism Training Program for the US Army. Carter was the primary official responsible for actionable events within his USG agency and coordinator of DoD emergency response teams. Carter has extensive overseas deployment experience in 23 countries for disease investigation and outbreak response. He has more than 20 years of overseas operational experience while directly supporting real world response to WMD events and outbreak investigation. Experience includes national support during the Ameri-thrax investigation, Monkey pox research in the Democratic Republic of Congo and operational support during the Ebola crisis to include multiple deployments to Liberia, Sierre Leone and Guinea.