Medal of Science
October 2003
What is the National Medal of Science?
The National Medal of Science is the nation's highest
scientific honor. Established by Congress in 1959,
it was intended to be bestowed annually by the President
of the United States on a select group of individuals
deserving of special recognition by reason of their
outstanding contributions to knowledge in the physical,
biological, mathematical, or engineering sciences.
Congress expanded this definition in 1980 to recognize
outstanding work in the social and behavioral sciences.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy awarded the first
Medal of Science to the late Theodore Von Karman,
professor emeritus, California Institute of Technology.
Including the twelve 2000 winners, 386 have been awarded
the Medal of Science.
Who administers the Medals of Science?
The National Science Foundation (NSF) administers the
Medal of Science program for the President.
Who is eligible to receive the Medal of Science?
Any U.S. citizen or permanent resident who has applied
for citizenship within the preceding 12 months.
What is the selection process?
A distinguished independent, 12-member, presidential-appointed
committee reviews the nominations and sends its list
of recommendations to the President for final selection.
The committee is comprised of outstanding scientists
and engineers from a variety of disciplines in the
natural and social sciences. Serving as ex officio
members are the president of the National Academy
of Sciences and the Assistant to the President for
Science and Technology Policy.
For nomination and application information, contact
the program manager for the National Medal of Science.
National Medal of Science
Phone: 703-292-4518
Fax: 703-292-9008
Email: sfannone@nsf.gov
For information about the 2002 Science Medalists,
see:
Press
Release
Fact
Sheet: Vital Information on the Awardees of the 2002
National Medal of Science
|