National Academy of Sciences

Overview

The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) is an independent, non-profit organization in the United States, established by an Act of Congress and signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. Its primary goal is to provide scientific advice to the nation. The NAS is part of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, which also includes the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and the National Academy of Medicine (NAM).

History

The National Academy of Sciences was established during the height of the Civil War with the aim of "providing independent, objective advice to the nation on matters related to science and technology". The founding members were a group of fifty eminent scientists, called upon by President Abraham Lincoln and Congress to meet the pressing scientific issues of the day.

Membership

Membership in the NAS is considered one of the highest honors that a scientist can receive. Members are elected by their peers for outstanding contributions to research. As of 2021, the NAS includes about 2,400 members and 500 foreign associates, of which approximately 190 have won Nobel Prizes.

Function

The NAS functions as an official advisory body to the federal government, on request, in any matter of science or technology. It provides a public service by working outside the framework of government to ensure independent advice on matters of science, technology, and medicine.

Organization

The NAS is governed by a Council, which includes the president, vice presidents, home secretary, foreign secretary, and treasurer. The Council is responsible for the administration and coordination of the Academy's affairs.

Publications

The NAS publishes the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), one of the world's most-cited multidisciplinary scientific journals. It covers the biological, physical, and social sciences.

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