Our Members

Election to the National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, or Institute of Medicine is considered one of the highest professional honors among scientists, engineers, and health care professionals. Each year, new members are elected by current members based on outstanding achievement and commitment to service. Visit the NAS, NAE, and IOM membership sites for more information.

• National Academy of Sciences Member's Page
• National Academy of Engineering Member's Page
• Institute of Medicine Member's Page
• Frequently Asked Questions About Membership

Members at a Glance

The National Academy of Sciences membership consists of approximately 2,100 members and 350 foreign associates, each of whom is affiliated with one of 31 disciplinary sections. The Institute of Medicine has more than 1,700 members and foreign associates. The National Academy of Engineering has more than 2,000 peer-elected members and foreign associates.

More than 300 NAS, NAE, and IOM members are Nobel laureates.

The National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation have been awarded to more than 250 of our members. 

Notable Members, Past and Present

Committee Service

Each year, more than 6,000 Academy members and other volunteer experts serve on hundreds of study committees that examine some of society’s most pressing issues. The results of their efforts frequently form the basis of public policies for decades to come. In addition, members of our standing committees and roundtables provide ongoing advice and guidance on a range of issues.

• Studies under way
• Read more about the study process or watch a video 
• Roles of a committee chair

More than 900 individuals have been awarded the lifetime designation of National Associate of the National Research Council to formally honor their extraordinary service in serving on committees or acting as report reviewers.  New designations are made each year.