President Biden has announced the latest recipients of the National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation. These awards represent the highest honors in the United States for outstanding achievements in science and technology.
The National Medal of Science, established by Congress in 1959, has been awarded by U.S. Presidents for 65 years to individuals who have made significant contributions to science in service to the nation. It is administered by the U.S. National Science Foundation.
Similarly, the National Medal of Technology and Innovation recognizes American innovators whose efforts have strengthened the economy and improved quality of life since it was first awarded in 1985. This medal was established by Congress in 1980 and is managed by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
President Biden emphasized that those receiving these awards embody "the promise of America" through their groundbreaking work. "These trailblazers have harnessed the power of science and technology to tackle challenging problems and deliver innovative solutions," he said.
Recipients have contributed significantly across various fields, addressing issues like climate change, disease treatment, vaccine development, communication technologies, and expanding our understanding of the universe. Their work not only advances American leadership but also inspires future generations.
The new honorees include:
National Medal of Science Recipients:
- Richard B. Alley
- Larry Martin Bartels
- Bonnie L. Bassler
- Angela Marie Belcher
- Helen M. Blau
- Emery Neal Brown
- John O. Dabiri
- Ingrid Daubechies
- Cynthia Dwork
- R. Lawrence Edwards
- Wendy L. Freedman
- Keivan G. Stassun
- G. David Tilman
- Teresa Kaye Woodruff
National Medal of Technology and Innovation Recipients:
- Martin Cooper
- Jennifer A. Doudna
- Eric R. Fossum
- Paula T. Hammond
- Kristina M. Johnson
- Victor B. Lawrence
- David R. Walt
- Paul G. Yock
- Feng Zhang
Organizational recipients include Moderna Inc., and Pfizer Inc., both recognized for their contributions to technology and innovation.