The National Medal of Science awards nominees for outstanding cumulative contributions to knowledge in the physical, biological, mathematical, engineering, or behavioral or social sciences, in service to the nation. As the National Science Foundation website states, “Ideal nominations make a strong case for scientific or engineering achievement as well as broader impacts in promoting the progress of science; advancing the national health, prosperity, and welfare; securing the national defense; and other purposes.”

Eligibility Requirements:

• Nominees cannot nominate themselves or be nominated by immediate family members.
• Teams are not eligible.
• Deceased nominees are eligible until the fifth anniversary of the day of death.
• Nobel Prize winners are eligible but do not receive special consideration.
• Nominee cannot be re-nominated until three years after initial nomination, including the year of nomination.

Nomination packets should include:

• Nomination Form.
• 3-5 Letters of Support.

Website:

http://www.nsf.gov/od/nms/medal.jsp