Koopman Prize Description
The Koopman Prize recognizes the best published paper on military or security operations research topics directly related to MAS goals. The Koopman Prize is awarded annually during the INFORMS Annual Meeting and provides a $500 honorarium. This award honors the memory of Bernard Koopman (1900-1981), a pioneer in the field of operations research. Dr. Koopman was active in the founding of the Operations Research Society of America (ORSA), which later merged with TIMS to form INFORMS, and served as its president in 1956. Dr. Koopman served as an operations research liaison between the U.S. Department of Defense and United Kingdom military establishments and NATO and played a critical role in making operations research a permanent NATO activity.
Nomination Process
A nomination can be made by any INFORMS member, and self-nominations are allowed. The paper must have been published during the previous calendar year. For example, submissions for the 2023 Koopman Prize must have been published with a publication date of 2022. Also, at least 50% of the co-authors on a nominated paper must be members of the Military and Security (MAS) Society. We welcome both your submission and your membership in our community!
A complete nomination requires:
- An electronic (pdf) copy of the published paper
- A hyperlink to the website where the paper is published
Not later than July 1, 2024, submit your nominated paper to the INFORMS online portal for the Koopman Prize at: https://informs-awards.secure-platform.com/a/solicitations/212/home. Only electronic submissions are accepted. Nominated papers must include complete citations or documentation, so it is clear the paper was formally published during the previous calendar year.
Evaluation Process
Nominations are evaluated with respect to the following four criteria:
- Technical rigor. The technical rigor criterion assesses the depth and quality of the research methodology used in the publication. It examines the thoroughness of data collection, modeling techniques, and analysis methods. A publication should demonstrate a high degree of rigor in its approach, ensuring that the research is sound and the results are reliable. Factors to consider may include the use of advanced mathematical or computational techniques, appropriate statistical methods, and the precision of the research process.
- Originality. Originality refers to the novelty of the research and the extent to which it contributes new insights or approaches to the field of operations research. A publication should advance the state of knowledge, challenge existing paradigms, or introduce innovative concepts. It should demonstrate a unique perspective and offer fresh solutions to problems. The originality criterion encourages creativity and the exploration of uncharted territory in the field.
- Relevance. Relevance assesses the practical applicability of the research findings and their alignment with real-world problems and concerns. A publication should address significant and pertinent military or security issues within the domain of operations research. It should demonstrate a clear connection between the research and its potential impact on decision-making processes, policy development, or practical applications. Publications that directly address current challenges and have the potential to make a meaningful difference in practice are prioritized.
- Implementability. Implementability evaluates the feasibility of applying the research results in real-world settings. It considers factors such as the clarity of recommendations, the ease of integration into existing systems or processes, and any potential barriers to implementation. A publication should provide actionable insights and practical guidance for decision-makers and practitioners in the field. The criterion encourages research that can be readily translated into tangible solutions or strategies.
2024 Committee Chair: Tahir Ekin
Email: tahirekin@txstate.edu
SaveSaveSave