Lynnette D. Madsen, National Science Foundation (NSF), will receive the inaugural Materials Research Society (MRS) Impact Award “in recognition of her effectiveness in exemplifying technical leadership, advancing diversity, fostering mentoring and communicating persuasively to influence both large and small institutions.” This award honors outstanding individuals who have displayed excellence in science communication, education, advancing diversity, mentoring, or community engagement, which reflect the Society’s pursuit to advance materials science and technology to improve the quality of life.

Madsen has worked at NSF as a program director in materials research since 2000. Additionally, she has completed three detail assignments at NSF dealing with international efforts with Africa, increasing the advancement of women in academic careers, and strategic human capital analysis and planning. She has led new co-operative activities with European researchers in materials; has been part of the driving force in program development and initiatives in nanotechnology, manufacturing, and sustainability; and has maintained an active independent research program. Previously, she was on the faculty at Linköping University and held a visiting/adjunct faculty position at Carnegie Mellon University. Earlier, she spent a decade working in industry in Canada. She has had support from industry (ABB, Siemens, and Nortel Networks) for her research and consulting.

Madsen has published two books, three book chapters/sections, and 99 articles; has been awarded three patents; and has delivered more than 100 invited talks. She has served as a panelist for the National Research Council and as a Trustee for the American Vacuum Society (AVS), and currently serves as an Advisory Board member for the Rosalind Franklin Society and on the Board of Directors for The American Ceramic Society (ACerS). She has a BASc degree in electrical engineering and a BA degree in psychology from the University of Waterloo, a MEng degree in electronics from Carleton University, and a PhD degree in materials science from McMaster University. Madsen’s other recognitions include those by NSF (two Director Awards), The Minerals, Metals and Materials Society (Ellen Swallow Richards Diversity Award), ABET (Claire L. Felbinger Award for Diversity), ACerS (Fellow), the University of Waterloo (Engineering Achievement Medal), Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (Junipero Serra Award), and AVS (Excellence in Leadership Recognition).