Do extraordinary science and technology scientists balance their publishing and patenting activities?

This study investigated whether 12 scientists who had received the National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation balanced publishing and patenting activities. The results demonstrated that although the scientist were recognized for their contributions to science and technology, the majority of recipients were not prolific researchers, and some were not influential. Notably, one scientist had not been granted a single patent. This indicated that scientific and technological contributions may not necessarily correspond with influential scientific publications and patents. Moreover, only two scientists had filed for patents before publishing, and they also invested more time developing technological inventions. Most recipients were science- or technology-oriented scientists. Few scientists balanced their publishing and patenting activities, and demonstrated excellent research and technology performance.

Automated summary

The study found that most award-winning scientists were not prolific researchers and lacked influence, indicating that scientific and technological contributions do not necessarily correspond with influential scientific publications and patents. Only a few scientists filed for patents before publishing, investing more time developing technological inventions, while most recipients were science- or technology-oriented.