Michael A. Peat, PhD, to Receive AAFS Gradwohl Medallion

The Gradwohl Medallion is the highest honor of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) and is the foremost peer award in the forensic sciences. The Gradwohl Medallion is conferred only upon those persons who have attained exceptional distinction in the advancement of the forensic sciences, who have given outstanding service to the AAFS over a long period of time, and who have achieved outstanding recognition in a public position through service to the forensic science profession. We are pleased to announce Michael A. Peat, PhD, as the recipient of the 2026 award.      

His academic journey began in the United Kingdom and culminated in a PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Utah. This foundation propelled him into a storied career that has shaped the field of forensic science and toxicology at every level. From his early years in the Metropolitan Police Forensic Science Laboratory in London to his professorial roles at the University of Utah and subsequent executive leadership in both private and academic laboratories, Dr. Peat has remained consistently at the forefront of forensic science innovation, rigor, and, importantly, leadership. 

Dr. Peat has served on the Journal of Forensic Sciences (JFS) Editorial Board for over 35 years — initially as a Member, then as Editor (2000–2017), and currently as Editor-in-Chief. In his editorial leadership roles, Dr. Peat has guided a diverse and accomplished team of Associate Editors and Editorial Board Members from academic and research institutions in publishing peer-reviewed articles of the highest quality and impact. His vision and dedication have advanced every discipline within forensic science and his influence on JFS has been profound and far-reaching. Under his editorial leadership, JFS has not only grown in scientific rigor and international stature but has also become a beacon of cross-disciplinary forensic scholarship. His partnership with the journal's publisher, Wiley, has greatly enhanced JFS's visibility, growth, and international relevance. He has modernized JFS by leveraging digital platforms and electronic communication to improve the reach, efficiency, and quality of its content — positioning JFS as a globally recognized, multidisciplinary leader in forensic science publishing.

Under Dr. Peat's leadership, JFS continues to be the top-rated AAFS membership benefit. It has also become a major revenue contributor to AAFS — ranking third in overall contributions. His restructuring of JFS to a professional operation with a dedicated editorial leadership team in 2017 resulted in remarkable growth, with JFS revenue to AAFS increasing by 86% together with a 94% growth in readership.

Dr. Peat's contributions to the Academy extend far beyond his role as the Editor-in-Chief of JFS. He served on the AAFS Board of Directors and Executive Committee, as well as AAFS President during its 50th Anniversary. In addition, Dr. Peat held numerous leadership roles within both the AAFS and the Toxicology Section and served on multiple Academy-wide committees. His achievements include receiving the Alexander O. Gettler Award in 1998 and the Distinguished Fellow Award in 2006.

Dr. Peat has played a pivotal role in shaping national drug testing policy through work with the Drug Testing Advisory Board for NIDA, the United States Department of Health and Human Services, and the United States Anti-Doping Agency. He contributed to the National Laboratory Certification Program, educating inspectors, and enhancing lab oversight. His perspectives on analytical rigor, laboratory accreditation, and the societal implications of toxicology have helped shape global forensic policy discussions. As a long-time faculty member for the Medical Review Officer Training Course and other national programs, his commitment to professional education and scientific standards is unmatched. His scholarly output includes 40 publications, 19 abstracts, 13 book chapters, 6 book reviews, and over 100 presentations.

Dr. Peat's career is a paragon of excellence in scientific achievement, professional service, and public leadership. His distinguished and multifaceted contributions reflect not only his unparalleled commitment to scientific advancement, integrity, and public service, but also his lasting impact on the Academy and the global forensic science community. Dr. Michael Peat represents the highest ideals embodied by the Gradwohl Medallion — which makes him a standout recipient for this most prestigious recognition.