For Immediate Release
Date:  December 4, 2006

IIa Technical Director Receives International Recognition

Oak Ridge, TN. Dr. John Rumble, Technical Director for Information International Associates, has been awarded the 2006 CODATA Prize. Rumble received the prize in Beijing, China, in late October 2006. The prize is awarded biannually for outstanding achievement in scientific and technical data.

Rumble, former Director of the Standard Reference Data Program at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), was honored for being "an innovator in the world of scientific and technical data." He has been instrumental in extending data evaluation techniques in new disciplines, including engineering, materials, and biotechnology. Rumble has long been a leader in using advanced information technology for developing computerized databases, online data networks, and data exchange standards.

On accepting the award, Rumble told conference attendees that its award underscored "my belief that scientific data is a team effort involving scientists from every country and every discipline." He encouraged his colleagues, noting that "creating access to the best scientific and technical data possible makes our world a better place."

CODATA, the Committee on Data for Science and Technology, is an interdisciplinary committee of the International Council for Science (ICSU). IIa President Bonnie C. Carroll is the U.S. national delegate to CODATA. Carroll has worked with Rumble on national and international scientific and technical data projects for nearly 15 years. According to Carroll, "In every position he has held, John has promoted the development of quality standards and methods and the recognition of the importance of good data management. He has been instrumental in extending data evaluation techniques in areas outside the physical sciences, including engineering, materials, and even information technology data themselves."

Headquartered in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, IIa provides information management, systems, and technology services to the government, industry, non-profit and academic organizations, and international entities. IIa is a woman-owned, small business with ~200 employees in 10 states, the District of Columbia, and the United Kingdom. More information about IIa can be found at www.iiaweb.com.