Dr. Vincent J. Urick Obituary; Renowned Consultant for DARPA and OUSD R&E, Dies at Virginia Home

Dr. Vincent J. Urick, a distinguished scientist and consultant for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD R&E), has passed away in Virginia.

Widely respected for his groundbreaking contributions to the fields of photonics, electronic warfare, and sensing technologies, Dr. Urick leaves behind a legacy of innovation, service, and deep commitment to national defense and scientific advancement.

Dr. Urick joined DARPA in May 2016 as a program manager in the Strategic Technology Office, where he led pioneering efforts in the development of next-generation technologies for national security.

His work was particularly focused on photonics—harnessing light for applications in sensing and communications—electronic warfare systems, and advanced sensors designed for use in complex urban environments. His unique ability to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world implementation set him apart as a thought leader in his field.

Prior to his tenure at DARPA, Dr. Urick served as the head of the Applied Radio Frequency Photonics Section at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL). At NRL, he made significant contributions to the advancement of radio frequency photonics, a critical technology area that merges optical and radio frequency systems to enhance communication, sensing, and signal processing capabilities.

His research not only led to scientific breakthroughs but also ensured that key photonic technologies were successfully transitioned to operational platforms within the Navy and other Department of Defense agencies.

Throughout his career, Dr. Urick was known not only for his technical expertise but also for his mentorship, collaboration, and leadership. Colleagues and collaborators alike admired his ability to inspire teams and cultivate innovation, even when facing some of the most complex scientific and engineering challenges.

Dr. Urick’s academic background was rooted in a lifelong dedication to science and technology. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in physics from Bloomsburg University, followed by a Master of Science and a doctorate in applied physics from George Mason University. His academic achievements laid the groundwork for a career characterized by technical rigor and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

He was a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), one of the world’s most prestigious professional organizations for electrical and electronic engineering. In addition, he was a member of the Optical Society of America (OSA), reflecting his deep engagement in the optics and photonics communities.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Urick will be remembered for his integrity, intellectual curiosity, and the genuine care he showed to those around him. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the defense research community, and his work will continue to influence future generations of scientists and engineers.

Dr. Vincent J. Urick’s passing is a profound loss to his colleagues, collaborators, and the broader scientific community. His dedication to advancing national security through science and innovation stands as a lasting tribute to a career defined by service, excellence, and vision.

Details regarding services and remembrances will be shared by the family at a later date.