Dr. Richard LaVoie is the Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology (S&T) Foundations in the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering (OUSW(R&E)). He is responsible for overseeing all foundational initiatives within the Department of War S&T Enterprise.

Dr. LaVoie oversees the defense research laboratories and warfare/engineering centers, the Department’s federally funded research and development centers, university affiliated research centers and DoW's basic research investments. These investments include university research grants, education and workforce development programs (including DoW’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-serving Institutions Program), and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics initiatives, as well as the Department’s Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs.

As advocate for the Department’s S&T workforce, Dr. LaVoie is responsible for the more than 63,000 scientists and engineers who work in over 60 DoW laboratories, warfare centers, and engineering centers across 22 states and the District of Columbia. He also oversees the Department’s technical interchange between Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States (Five Eyes).

Previously, as Senior Advisor to the Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology, Dr. LaVoie assisted leadership in coordinating the basic and applied research of the defense research enterprise, helping to inform future technologies and operational requirements for the warfighter. He also advised on international partnerships, interagency coordination, and the transition of emerging capabilities to ensure close alignment with the strategic objectives of the Department.

Dr. LaVoie also served as the intelligence analyst lead advisor at the Navy Cyber Warfare Development Group, where he spearheaded innovative research methods for specialized intelligence programs and assisted in the planning and execution of real-world and exercise operations. During his tenure, he drove future research and development by supporting key engineering and technology programs while building and mentoring teams of technical experts.

In the private sector, Dr. LaVoie served as Chief of Staff to the Vice President of National Security Services at a midsize defense firm where he helped manage key defense program efforts. He has prior experience at various think tanks, in media, and Congress.

Richard holds a doctorate in international affairs from Johns Hopkins University, School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and an MA in International Economics and International Political Economy. Richard graduated from University of Washington, Phi Beta Kappa. He is a private pilot and a U.S. Navy Reserve Officer.