I think Locher created Noll to be his own alter ego in the strip.
Similarities…
Both from Iowa University.
Both “forgetful” about what happened 10 minutes ago or yesterday.
Both blow things up - regularly.
Both have a limited grasp of reality.
Both with questionable hygiene?
Note that the bomber-seeking computer geek is a lefty. I read somewhere that everyone who works at the CIA is left handed.