This presentation describes some of the human challenges of conducting U.S. Navy submarine or diving operations, and introduces the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory’s (NSMRL’s) research intended to mitigate those challenges. Emphasis is placed upon topics of interest to the Center for Digital Health, such as NSMRL research contributing to the development of portable technologies for individual state monitoring or for supporting maintenance of optimal performance. To foster communication concerning potential future collaborations, some unique considerations of research in a military setting are discussed, and recommendations are made concerning how to address those considerations. NSMRL collaborates frequently with non-military partners and looks forward to further communication with the Center for Digital Health concerning potential areas of mutual interest.

Ben Lawson has 29 years of experience in Navy and Army research laboratories. He has served as the Technical Director of the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory since January of 2017. He is an expert on spatial orientation and motion maladaptation. He also has published on psychomotor coordination, situation awareness, auditory perception, cognitive performance, mishap analysis, human factors, pharmacological countermeasures, survey scales, teamwork, and technology transition. In addition to his research, he has transitioned materiel products and military standards. Dr. Lawson has served on military executive steering boards, program review panels, and international committees. He has chaired a multi-lab research portfolio, an IRB, and an SRB. He has served as an Adjunct Professor of Psychology, Human Factors, and Military Medicine, and on editorial and advisory boards for books, symposia, and journals.

Access Dr. Lawson's slides from the 10/6/21 presentation here.