National Medal of Science

The National Medal of Science is an honor bestowed by the President of the United States to individuals in science and engineering who have made important contributions to the advancement of knowledge in the fields of behavioral and social sciences, biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, and physics.

Three Intramural Research Program (IRP) scientists have been awarded the National Medal of Science:

• Mortimer Mishkin (2010). For spearheading work over the past five decades in understanding the pathways for vision, hearing, and touch, and about how those processing streams connect with brain structures important for memory. Read the press release from the National Institute of Mental Health.
• Anthony Fauci (2005). For pioneering scientific research that enhances our understanding of the world and leads to innovations and technologies that give the U.S. its global economic edge. Read the press release from the Office of the President.
• Kenneth S. Cole (1967). For highly original experimental and theoretical investigations of the electrical properties of biological membranes that have led to a deep understanding of the functioning of nerves. Read a description of his breakthroughs from the National Science and Technology Medals Foundation.