The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) of the United States announced the election of 72 new members, including two Iranian scientists.

There are 18 foreign associates from 15 countries among the new members. The National Academy of Sciences is a private organization of scientists and engineers dedicated to the furtherance of science and promotion of public welfare.

The academy was established in 1863 by a congressional act of incorporation signed by Abraham Lincoln. It acts as an official adviser to the Federal government, upon request, in any matter of science or technology.

Members are elected in recognition of their distinguished and continuing achievements in original research. Election to the Academy is considered one of the highest honors that can be accorded a scientist or engineer. The election of the new members brings to 2150 the total active members of the academy.

The NAS is a private organization of scientists and engineers dedicated to the furtherance of science and its use for the general welfare. It was established in 1863 by the Congressional Act of Incorporation signed by Abraham Lincoln that calls on the Academy to act as an official advisor to the federal government in matters of science and technology.