Last December, Stanford microbiologist Stanley Falkow, PhD, learned he had been awarded the 2015 National Medal of Science -- which he called at the time "a total surprise." Yesterday afternoon, during a White House ceremony, he was formally presented with the medal by President Barack Obama.
Falkow, who was recognized for his pioneering work in studying how bacteria can cause human disease and how antibiotic resistance is transmitted, was one of 17 scientists, engineers, mathematicians and innovators to receive a National Medal of Science or National Medal of Technology and Innovation. Before congratulating each award recipient, Obama commented that "the amount of brainpower in this room right now is astonishing" and expressed his pride at being able to honor each person for their contributions. "There are few better examples for our young people to follow than the honorees here today," he said.
Previously: Stanley Falkow awarded National Medal of Science, White House announces today and Stanford’s Lucy Shapiro receives National Medal of Science
Photo by Ryan K. Morris and the National Science & Technology Medals Foundation
