On Aug. 23, 1961, The Committee on the National Medal of Science was established by President John F. Kennedy. Established in 1959 by the U.S. Congress, the National Medal of Science is the highest recognition the nation can bestow on scientists and engineers.

The National Medal of Science depicts a human form, surrounded by Earth, sea and sky, contemplating and seeking to understand nature. The crystal in the figure’s hand symbolizes the universal order and also suggests the basic unit of living things. The formula the figure is sketching in the sand symbolizes scientific abstraction.

The presidential award is given to individuals deserving of special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to knowledge in the physical, biological, mathematical, engineering, or social and behavioral sciences, in service to the Nation.

These broad areas include such disciplines as astronomy, chemistry, computer and information science and engineering, geoscience, materials research, and research on STEM education.

A committee of distinguished scientists and engineers is appointed by the president of the United States to evaluate the nominees for the award. Medals are presented to recipients by the president during an awards ceremony at the White House.