John S. Foster Jr.
MEDAL HOME

NOMINATION AND SELECTION

Nominees should have a proven record of outstanding contributions and achievements that demonstrate scientific, technical, management, or policy leadership related to enhancing the nation's nuclear deterrent. The nomination package should consist of a letter of nomination (including contact information for three references who may be asked for further input), and a curriculum vitae or biography listing significant accomplishments. The nomination letter should emphasize the candidate’s major achievements and the resulting impacts in the context of the assessment criteria. Relevant contributions and achievements must have lasting influence, reflecting the attributes of Dr. Foster's many accomplishments and the qualities that distinguish his remarkable career.

The nomination materials will be evaluated by an independent peer review panel to be selected by the LLNL Director. The panel will include members from the National Nuclear Security Administration’s national laboratories and the broader national security community. Worthy candidates will be identified in the peer review, and a selection recommendation will be forwarded to the LLNL Director, who will make the final decision on behalf of LLNS.

ASSESSMENT

Nominees for the John S. Foster Jr. Medal will be assessed using the following criteria:

Achievements: Demonstrating innovation and professional excellence in the evolution of nuclear forces and nuclear strategy through advancing science and technology, developing and deploying new capabilities, and formulating nuclear policy. Inspiring leadership and building teams in the national interest: formulating and guiding the direction of nuclear policy; developing and deploying new capabilities to enhance the safety, security, and effectiveness of the nuclear deterrent; and assembling multidisciplinary teams or integrating disparate points of views to forge an effective combination of nuclear forces, arms control and verification measures, and nuclear deterrence policy.

Strong programmatic focus and dedication to national service: Exemplifying dedication with unceasing attention to the most important national security issues by applying new approaches and achieving breakthrough advances in science and technology to address emerging national needs.

Character: Motivated and able to motivate others to do their best: identifying and focusing on difficult problems and emerging threats to the nation; taking on difficult scientific and technical challenges; assembling effective multidisciplinary teams; and inspiring and mentoring others to contribute more than they thought possible.

Keen judgment and rigor: Consistently using a strong technical basis as the starting point for discussions, articulating persuasive arguments based on sound analysis of alternatives and their consequences, and always questioning assumptions and asking what can go wrong.
Grace, honesty, integrity: working constructively with others, promoting teamwork and helping people work to agreement on difficult issues, and generously supporting the aspirations of all.