The Laser Institute of America has elected the IfM's Dr Bill O'Neill as Fellow. The grade of Fellow is the highest level of membership in the LIA. It is awarded to recognise members of the institute who have attained unusual professional distinction in the LIA mission areas of laser science and technology, laser applications, and provided outstanding service to their field.

To be eligible for the prestigious award nominees must have practiced the profession of laser science and engineering in academia, medicine, industry or government for at least 10 years. Dr O'Neill is head of the IfM's Centre for Industrial Photonics. He was presented with his award at the 29th International Congress on Applications of Lasers and Electro-optics held in California, USA.