Linus Pauling Award
Overview
The Linus Pauling Award is a prestigious accolade in the field of chemistry, named after the eminent chemist and peace activist Linus Pauling. This award is presented annually by the American Chemical Society (ACS) to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, particularly in areas that were of interest to Pauling himself.
History
The Linus Pauling Award was established in 1966, four years after Pauling received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on the nature of the chemical bond. The award was created by the Puget Sound, Oregon, and Portland sections of the ACS, with the aim of recognizing and encouraging innovative research in chemistry.
Criteria and Selection Process
The selection process for the Linus Pauling Award is rigorous and competitive. Nominees are evaluated based on their contributions to the field of chemistry, particularly in areas that were of interest to Pauling. These areas include, but are not limited to, the nature of the chemical bond, the structure of molecules and crystals, and the nature and behavior of substances of biological importance.
The selection committee, composed of representatives from the participating ACS sections, reviews the nominations and selects the awardee. The awardee is then invited to give the Linus Pauling Award Lecture at the annual award symposium.
Notable Awardees
Over the years, the Linus Pauling Award has been bestowed upon many distinguished chemists. Some notable awardees include:
- Roald Hoffmann, a theoretical chemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1981. Hoffmann received the Linus Pauling Award in 1978 for his work on the electronic structure of molecules.
- Dudley R. Herschbach, a physical chemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1986. Herschbach received the Linus Pauling Award in 1984 for his work on the dynamics of chemical reactions.
- Barbara J. Finlayson-Pitts, an atmospheric chemist known for her work on air pollution. Finlayson-Pitts received the Linus Pauling Award in 2013 for her contributions to our understanding of atmospheric chemistry.
Impact and Significance
The Linus Pauling Award, by recognizing and encouraging outstanding contributions to the field of chemistry, plays a crucial role in promoting scientific research and innovation. The award not only honors the legacy of Linus Pauling, but also inspires the next generation of chemists to strive for excellence in their own research endeavors.