Today President Joseph Biden honored seven members of the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) with the National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation. The medals represent the highest honors in the United States for achievements in science and technological achievement.
The six NAM members who received the National Medal of Science and details about their achievements are listed below:
Huda Akil (University of Michigan), “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.” Akil was elected to the NAM in 1994 and to the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) in 2011.
Eve Marder (Brandeis University), “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.” Marder was elected to the NAM in 2013 and to the NAS in 2007.
Gregory A. Petsko (Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital), “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.” Petsko was elected to the NAM in 2001 and to the NAS in 1995.
Subra Suresh (Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Brown University), “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.” Suresh was elected to the NAM in 2013, to the NAS in 2012, and to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) in 2002.
Shelley E. Taylor (University of California Los Angeles), “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.” Taylor was elected to the NAM in 2003 and to the NAS in 2009.
Sheldon Weinbaum (The City College of the City University of New York), “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.” Weinbaum was elected to the NAM and NAS in 2002 and to the NAE in 1996.
The NAM member who received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation and details about his achievements are below:
Steven A. Rosenberg (National Cancer Institute), “for transforming the way we treat cancer and advancing our progress toward ending cancer as we know it. By leading the development of the first effective immunotherapies, he has saved countless lives and inspired a generation of scientists. His work powerfully illustrates that we can do big things as Americans.” Rosenberg was elected to the NAM in 1987.
About the National Medals
The National Medal of Science was established in 1959 by the U.S. Congress and serves as the highest recognition the nation can confer on scientists and engineers. It is awarded for outstanding contributions to knowledge in the physical, biological, mathematical, engineering, or social and behavioral sciences, in service to the country.
The National Medal of Technology and Innovation was established in 1980 by the U.S Congress. It is the nation’s highest honor for technological achievement and recognizes outstanding contributions to the United States’ economic, environmental, and social well-being.
