AFRL New Mexico, University of Arizona sign Education Partnership Agreement Published Aug. 3, 2015 By Air Force Research Laboratory KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Air Force Research Laboratory New Mexico has signed a collaboration agreement with the University of Arizona. The Education Partnership Agreement calls for sharing research opportunities to advance technological development and build a stronger workforce. AFRL New Mexico, located in Albuquerque, is comprised of two technical directorates--Directed Energy and Space Vehicles. Scientists and engineers from both directorates will collaborate with U of A students and faculty under the agreement. U of A is a leader in optics research, a particularly important field to AFRL New Mexico's research and innovation. "We are excited about the opportunities that this agreement creates, and look forward to working with the University of Arizona to further our science and technology advancement," said Dr. Robert Peterkin, Chief Scientist for Directed Energy at AFRL. "The University of Arizona is pleased to partner with AFRL in service of our nation's defense and security," said Dr. Kimberly Andrews Espy, University of Arizona's Senior Vice President for Research. "The alignment between the University of Arizona's long standing strengths in optics, space science and physical sciences and AFRL's program's is remarkable, making this partnership a natural." In addition to encouraging joint research and development projects, the agreement gives U of A students and faculty increased access to AFRL personnel, specialized test facilities and surplus AFRL equipment that can be used for research and education. The signing took place Tuesday, July 28th at AFRL New Mexico.