Nomination and Election

Members and foreign associates are elected annually in recognition of their distinguished achievements in original research; election is considered one of the highest honors that can be accorded a scientist or engineer. Currently, as many as 72 members and 18 foreign associates may be elected annually.

Although many names are suggested informally, formal nominations can be submitted only by an Academy member. Nomination materials and candidate lists are confidential. The nomination and evaluation process occurs throughout the year, culminating in a final ballot at the Academy's annual meeting in April. The names of newly elected members and foreign associates are announced in a press release, available on our web site. Because membership is achieved by election, there is no process by which an individual may apply for membership.

An overview of the nomination and election process, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, answers many frequently asked questions about Academy elections.