The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) held an awards ceremony on December 7 to recognize the achievements of its employees. Seventy-four employees received the Bronze Medal Award, NIST’s highest honorary recognition, for their significant contributions to various scientific, technical, and administrative fields. These contributions ranged from developing new measurement tools and advancing materials science to improving customer service and safety practices. Notable achievements included the creation of the NIST Interatomic Potentials Repository, the development of atomtronics, and the implementation of advanced metrology techniques. Several employees were also recognized for their work in supporting national initiatives, such as the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act and the Smart Grid standards framework.
In addition to the Bronze Medal, other awards were presented, including the Crittenden Award, the Allen V. Astin Measurement Service Award, and the Samuel Wesley Stratton Award, among others. These awards highlighted contributions in areas such as measurement science, engineering, customer service, and diversity initiatives. The Department of Commerce also presented Gold and Silver Medals to employees for their exceptional and distinguished service. These included breakthroughs in quantum metrology, ultracold molecule research, and the development of critical Internet security standards. The ceremony celebrated the diverse and impactful work of NIST staff across a wide range of scientific and technical disciplines.
Keywords: Quantum metrology, Single photon detector, Ultra-secure communication systems
