Department of Genetics, SK-50

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON 98 195

December 30, 1981

Dr. Joshua Lederberg
Rockefeller University
1230 York Avenue
New York, New York 10021

Dear Josh:

  The enclosed description of Barbara McClintock's achievements is largely
the work of Marcus Rhoades.  I think it covers the important ground but I am
not sure that it is in acceptable form, not having had any experience of this
kind before.  I hope that you can take it from here.

  I didn't know quite what you meant by the statement that you didn't regard
the AC-Ds work as her most important contribution.  If something else should be
stressed, please make any changes that you see fit.  Both Marcus and I felt that
controlling elements and the extrapolations from them were the highlights of
Barbara's career.

   Francis Crick called me in response to my letter asking for his support. He
thought that the deadline for the nomination was January 31.  He was in favor of
Barbara's nomination but felt that, because of the large backlog of worthwhile
candidates, a package of three would have a better chance of succeeding. He
mentioned Benzer and Brenner.  However, I don't see what would hold the three
together for the Nobel Committee.  At any rate, it is too late and too difficult
to get the required material.  It occurs to me that perhaps Nobelists are privy
to names of candidates for the Prize.  If you have such a list, would you think of
putting a package together?

   I have received agreements from George Beadle, Luria, Jacob, and Al Hershey
to support a McClintock candidacy.  Jim Watson declined because he was nominating
other people.  Francis Crick remains a possible supporter if a suitable package
can be formed.

   If there is anything else that Marcus or I can do to help you in furthering
Barbara's candidacy, please let us know.

Yours,

Herschel L. Roman

HLR/jb

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