National Medal of Science Recipients

For planet-saving contributions to climate science. Spending long tours in the most remote and extreme environments on Earth, Richard Alley has catapulted climate predictions to great heights and raised new urgency to address the climate crisis, moving the world toward a sustainable future. 

For thought leadership that promotes democracy around the world. Larry Bartels' study of democratic institutions and analyses of partisanship and voting behavior, economic inequality, and political accountability offer astute insights that have shaped attitudes and call on all of us to protect our sacred democratic principles.

For paving the way to develop novel therapies to combat bacteria. Spending years in laboratories while sparking the imaginations of students, Bonnie Bassler established bacteria as social organisms with a widespread signaling system for communicating. Her revolutionary research opens the gateway to solving biological puzzles that can save lives.

For her innovations in nanoscience and materials science that are changing the world. Driven by designs found in nature, Angela Belcher has created novel materials to detect early signs of cancer and to store more energy in solar cells. In the fields of energy and medicine, her research has opened up new possibilities for solving the defining challenges of our time.  

For her pioneering research in cellular biology and regenerative medicine. Helen Blau's discovery that cells can be reprogrammed and rejuvenated overturned prevailing views on the fate of mammalian cells, provided new strategies for treating cells damaged from illnesses and disorders, and redefined how we think of aging.   

For his revolutionary contributions to neuroscience and anesthesiology. Emery Brown's neuroscientific approach to understanding anesthesia's exact impact on the brain has been transformational for relieving patient suffering and has provided a new foundation for how we think about the very thing that makes us human-our consciousness. 

For outstanding achievements in aeronautical and biological engineering. Inspired by the movements of fish and jellyfish, John Dabiri's work on biological fluid dynamics, turbulence, and biological propulsion has advanced our clean energy future - leading to more efficient wind turbines and wind farms that make our world cleaner, safer, and more sustainable for future generations. 

For pioneering discoveries in the development of wavelets. A mathematician and physicist, Ingrid Daubechies has transformed the field of signal processing and the way society consumes, utilizes, and optimizes digital images and information - from art to smartphones and MRI machines. A trailblazer and role model, she empowers women in math and science worldwide.

For visionary contributions to the field of computer science and secure public-key cryptography. Cynthia Dwork's innovative research, analysis, and discoveries on differential privacy, fairness in algorithms, and statistical validity in adaptive data analysis help guide cutting-edge technologies across modern society and play a critical role in advancing the global public good.

For breakthrough discoveries in geochemistry that have transformed our understanding of Earth's climate history. Lawrence Edwards's innovative research methods shed light on the rate, scale, and drivers of climate change and the impact on human civilization - defining him as one of the most celebrated earth scientists of our time.

For charting the distance to new galaxies. Wendy Freedman's ground-breaking research on the Hubble constant, the rate at which the universe is expanding, tackles one of the greatest puzzles in astrophysics. It has informed her work on other major advances in outer space discovery, including through the Hubble Space and Giant Magellan telescopes, deepening our understanding of the universe. 

For increasing opportunities in STEM education and careers for underrepresented and neurodiverse populations. A talented astrophysicist passionate about discovering new worlds, Keivan Stassun has heightened our understanding of the Earth and surrounding planets, while instituting pipelines and programs to ensure that every American can access their own universe of possibilities. 

For quantifying biodiversity's key role in preserving a resilient planet, and spreading the message to policymakers for action. David Tilman's work proves the extraordinary variety of life that exists on Earth is essential to productive ecosystems, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and more, helping to feed and power the world while making conservation both a strategic and moral calling. 

For her trailblazing work in the fields of oncology and reproductive health. Teresa Woodruff's contributions have expanded fertility options for young cancer patients and survivors, created life-spanning educational and mentoring tools in reproduction, and led to the inclusion of female, as well as male, biological variables in biomedical science - modernizing the way we heal and care for all women. 

For pioneering contributions to our understanding of the brain biology of emotions. Her seminal discoveries of the molecular, neural, genetic, and behavioral mechanisms of pain, substance abuse, and depression have helped identify novel targets for treatments, strengthening our Nation’s public health, including the fight to end the opioid epidemic.

For exemplary service to science, including groundbreaking research on sub-atomic particles. His leadership of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory led to the first detection of gravitational waves from merging black holes, confirming a key part of Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. He has broadened our understanding of the universe and our Nation’s sense of wonder and discovery.

For outstanding contributions to the science of plant genetics. By developing sorghum strains that withstand droughts and parasites, he has improved food security for millions. His advocacy for science, policy, and institutions as key to economic development has lifted the fortunes of farmers and strengthened the souls of nations

For her paradigm-shifting contributions to the understanding of neuronal circuit plasticity, homeostatic regulation of neuronal excitability and individual variability; her visionary application of theoretical and experimental approaches to understanding neural circuits; and her inspirational advocacy of basic science.

For advancing our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases like ALS, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. His role in founding structural enzymology, along with his commitment to educating the public about brain health, have empowered people around the world and raised the ambitions of our Nation regarding aging with dignity.

For her seminal contributions to fundamental experimental studies of molecular nanomagnets, quantum spin dynamics, and spin coherence in condensed matter systems at low temperatures; for her tireless advocacy of human rights throughout the world; and for serving as an inspirational role model for women in physics.

For pioneering research across engineering, physical sciences, and life sciences. A transformative educator, he has advanced the study of material science and its application to other disciplines. His commitment to research and collaboration across borders has demonstrated how science can forge understanding and cooperation among people and nations.

For groundbreaking research into mental health and the power of human connection. Her work showed that optimism, self-esteem, and strong relationships improve the health of people with cancer, diabetes, and other diseases, helping establish the fields of social cognition, health psychology, and social neuroscience, and increasing our Nation’s well-being.

For pathbreaking research in biomechanics. His models have driven innovation in physiology, bone biology, and blood flow, increasing our understanding of cardiovascular disease and leading to lifesaving treatments. His exceptional teaching and mentorship underscore his lifelong advocacy for diversity and inclusion, tapping into the full talents of our Nation.

For his foundational contributions to the field of nanoscience; for the development of nanocrystals as a building block of nanotechnologies; and for his leadership in the nanoscience community.

For fundamental advances in the understanding of social learning mechanisms and self-referent thinking processes in motivation and behavior change, and for the development of the social cognitive theory of human action and psychological development.