Celebrating Excellence: 2024 National Medal of Technology and Innovation Winners Recognized at the White House

Nine individuals and two enterprises were acknowledged for their pioneering contributions, which include the “camera-on-a-chip” technology that is now part of most smartphones, advancements in mammogram and additional optoelectric technologies enabling improved breast cancer detection, as well as the mRNA vaccines that addressed a global pandemic, among other innovations. 

Derrick Brent, Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Acting Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), spoke at the special NMTI medaling event, which is overseen by the USPTO. Arati Prabhakar, Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, awarded the Laureates their NMTI medals along with 14 Laureates of the National Medal of Science, managed by the National Science Foundation (NSF). 

“These medals honor some of your most significant accomplishments,” remarked Acting USPTO Director Brent. “However, they also confer upon you a special duty: to mentor and motivate the upcoming generation of innovators. It is our responsibility to give back to history, and to our future.” 

The National Medal of Technology and Innovation represents the pinnacle of recognition for technological accomplishments in the nation. It honors American innovators whose insight, intellect, creativity, and determination have bolstered the economy and enhanced quality of life. Initiated by Congress and overseen by the USPTO, the inaugural Medal of Technology was awarded in 1985. 

To discover more about the NMTI, kindly visit the USPTO website. 

Honorees of the 2024 National Medal of Technology and Innovation 

Martin Cooper, Illinois Institute of Technology and Dyna LLC 

For the invention of the handheld mobile phone and the transformation of global communications. Martin Cooper made groundbreaking advances in cellular telephone and network technologies that have significantly reshaped our world—altering our understanding of closeness to others around the planet, our self-perception, and our expanded realms of possibilities. 

Jennifer A. Doudna, Innovative Genomics Institute 

For the advancement of the groundbreaking CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology, widely applicable in agriculture and health research. The innovations brought forth by Jennifer Doudna are fundamentally reshaping our collective health and have led to the development of treatments for sickle cell disease, cancer, type 1 diabetes, and beyond. 

Eric R. Fossum, Dartmouth College 

For the invention of revolutionary “camera-on-a-chip” technology that has converted billions of phones into cameras and altered daily life. When NASA required smaller cameras for space missions, Eric Fossum innovated a transformative image sensor and subsequently applied it across medicine, business, security, entertainment, and beyond, all while nurturing many young entrepreneurs seeking to push the limits of innovation. 

Paula T. Hammond, Massachusetts Institute of Technology 

For pioneering investigations in nanoscale engineering. Paula Hammond has developed innovative materials that have completely transformed the ways we administer cancer therapies to patients and how we harvest solar energy. As an inventor and mentor, Paula has paved the path for a more diverse and inclusive scientific community, harnessing the full potential of our nation. 

Kristina M. Johnson, Johnson Energy Holdings, LLC 

For groundbreaking contributions that have revolutionized optoelectronic devices, 3D imaging, and color management systems. Kristina Johnson has utilized her creativity and enthusiasm to devise technologies that have enhanced procedures for mammograms and pap smears, advocated clean energy, uplifted the entertainment sector, and beyond—while striving to broaden the scope of STEM for every American. 

Victor B. Lawrence, Bell Labs and Stevens Institute of Technology 

For a lifetime of prolific creativity in telecommunications and high-speed internet technology. Victor Lawrence has committed his existence to broadening the boundaries of opportunities globally. By introducing fiber-optic connectivity to the African region and enhancing internet access worldwide, he has improved the safety, prospects, and welfare of individuals across the planet. 

David R. Walt, Harvard Medical School 

For establishing a new benchmark in genetic examination that is reshaping medical research, treatment, and health. David Walt innovated the use of microwell arrays to examine thousands of genes simultaneously and identify single molecules, rendering DNA sequencing considerably more precise and affordable, and offering simple biomarker blood tests that may transform our strategies towards cancer and other ailments—instilling renewed hope within individuals. 

Paul G. Yock, Stanford University  

For breakthroughs in interventional cardiology. Paul Yock’s forward-thinking efforts in comprehending the human heart are being applied globally today to enhance patient care and preserve numerous lives. His development of the Biodesign methodology for training forthcoming leaders in biotechnology and health care guarantees that his knowledge and experiences will advantage future generations. 

Feng Zhang, Massachusetts Institute of Technology  

For pioneering the groundbreaking CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology, which has extensive applications in agriculture and health research. Feng Zhang’s advancements are fundamentally altering our shared health and welfare and have aided in developing treatments for sickle cell disease, cancer, type 1 diabetes, and additional conditions. 

For safeguarding millions of lives globally by utilizing mRNA vaccine technology to fight a global health crisis. In 2020, Moderna swiftly developed and rolled out a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine that was crucial for curbing the COVID-19 pandemic, opening new avenues in immunology and enhancing America’s role in research innovation. 

For preserving millions of lives worldwide by employing mRNA vaccine technology to tackle a global health emergency. In 2020, Pfizer rapidly created and provided a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine that was essential to concluding the COVID-19 pandemic, unlocking new opportunities in immunology and bolstering America’s leadership in research innovation.