Eight to Receive National Medals Of Science

Seven natural scientists and, for the first time ever, a sociologist are cited by U.S. president for their contributions For the first time since the National Medal of Science--the United States' highest scientific honor--was initially presented by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, a sociologist has been selected as one of the recipients. Robert K. Merton, University Professor Emeritus at Columbia University, New York City, and sev

Written byNeeraja Sankaran
| 7 min read

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Medalists are selected every year by the president from a list of nominees recommended by the Committee on the National Medal of Science, administered by the National Science Foundation. Three hundred and twenty medals have been awarded since 1962. This year's nominating committee consisted of such distinguished scientific figures as NSF president Neal Lane, National Academy of Sciences (NAS) president Bruce Alberts, and presidential science adviser John Gibbons. President Bill Clinton will present these medals along with the National Medals of Technology (see accompanying story) at ceremonies to be held at the White House later this month.

THE TOPS IN TECHNOLOGY This year, two corporations and four individuals have been selected to receive the National Medal of Technology, the annual presidential awards that recognize achievements in technological innovation and economic competitiveness. The technology medals were mandated by Congress in 1980 and first awarded in 1985. They are administered by the ...

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