The Medal of Science is the Nation's highest honor for scientists and engineers, and is presented annually by the President of the United States. It was established by the 86th Congress in 1959 as a Presidential Award to be given to individuals "deserving of special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to knowledge in the physical, biological, mathematical, or engineering sciences." In 1980 Congress expanded this recognition to include the social and behavioral sciences. The Committee of 12 scientists and engineers is appointed by the President to evaluate the nominees for this Award.

Since its establishment, the National Medal of Science has been awarded to distinguished scientists and engineers whose careers spanned decades of research and development. There are numerous younger American scientists and engineers, many of them women and minorities, now reaching the point where their contributions are worthy of recognition. The Committee asks your assistance in identifying them.

Review nomination or letter of reference submission instructions by selecting the appropriate tab above, or Log In to create a nomination or letter of reference. You may also view View Award Criteria.

The nomination period was closed on Sunday, October 10, 2004 12:00 AM.