Rebecca Toomey, a postdoctoral research scientist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), has been recognized with the American Physical Society (APS) Division of Nuclear Physics' (DNP) Distinguished Service Award.
The honor is intended to recognize those who have made substantial and extensive contributions to the nuclear physics community through the activities of the DNP. Toomey, the youngest-ever recipient, was selected by the committee for "organizing events at DNP meetings, where all are made to feel welcome and part of a larger community."
Toomey works in the Nuclear Physics and Accelerator Technologies group at LLNL, where she focuses on neutron detection and nuclear data in support of nuclear safeguarding activities. She has been a member of DNP for a decade and joined the social event organizing committee in 2021. In 2022, she spearheaded the effort to create the first fully integrated, in-person, early-career social event for the annual DNP meeting alongside fellow awardee Brennan Hackett. Prior to that time, the social events were held as grassroot satellite events.
"Seeing attendees enjoy the event each year and forging connections within the community brings me so much joy," said Toomey. "We pour our heart and souls into hosting these events, and it means a lot to see that effort recognized. It shows how deeply this work resonates across our whole community."
With these early-career social events, Toomey aims to create a welcoming environment where early career scientists can feel like a part of a larger community. She brings in speakers at various stages in their careers to talk about their journeys and experiences in nuclear physics.
"When others share their experience in a candid manner, it allows everyone in the room to see their own experience reflected in those around them," said Toomey.
Each year, new attendees forge connections and build camaraderie at these events. Toomey emphasized the importance of that networking, both for DNP members and anyone looking to organize similar events.
"From speakers to fundraising to building a sense of community - networking really is at the center of this effort," she said. "Networking has enabled this event to grow, both by connecting us with people that helped expand the reach of the event and by listening to our attendees to better understand their needs."
Toomey was presented with the award, consisting of a certificate with the citation given by the selection committee, at the annual APS DNP meeting in October.
