Francis Collins Receives Highest Science Honor in America After Decades of Faith and Discovery

Who Is Francis Collins and Why Did He Win the NAS Public Welfare Medal?

Francis Collins, the renowned geneticist and outspoken Christian apologist, has been named the 2026 recipient of the National Academy of Sciences Public Welfare Medal, the most prestigious award the Academy bestows.

The medal, established in 1914, honors "extraordinary use of science for the public good." Collins was recognized for his pioneering research in human genetics and his critical contributions to public welfare as the leader of the Human Genome Project.

Collins directed the National Center for Human Genome Research at the National Institutes of Health beginning in 1993, overseeing a massive effort involving hundreds of scientists. That work produced the first complete human genome sequence, fundamentally transforming biomedical research and opening the door to precision medicine.

During his tenure, Collins implemented the Bermuda Principles, which required the daily public sharing of genome data. He also helped develop the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), a landmark piece of legislation protecting Americans from genetic discrimination.

As NIH Director from 2009 to 2021, Collins served under three presidential administrations. He managed federal responses to the Ebola epidemic and the COVID 19 pandemic, championed Alzheimer's research funding, initiated the BRAIN Initiative, launched the Cancer Moonshot program, and created the All of Us longitudinal cohort study.

Collins has previously received the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Medal of Science. He is also the founder of the BioLogos Foundation, a think tank that explores the relationship between science and Christian faith.

Collins' scientific and public service career has advanced understanding of human disease, strengthened ethical frameworks in genetics, fostered public trust in science, and guided national and global responses to health crises.

The National Academy of Sciences said in its announcement.

The Public Welfare Medal will be formally presented to Collins on April 26 during the Academy's 163rd annual meeting.

How Francis Collins Led the Human Genome Project While Defending His Christian Faith

Collins, who authored the bestselling book "The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence for Belief," has long been one of the most prominent voices arguing that science and Christianity are not in conflict. His faith journey and scientific achievements have inspired millions of believers around the world.

The Crusader's Opinion

In a world that constantly tells Christians they must choose between faith and reason, Francis Collins stands as living proof that you can hold a Bible in one hand and a microscope in the other. He mapped the very language God used to write human life into existence. That is not a contradiction. That is worship. The secular establishment may try to claim him as their own, but let us never forget: this man's brilliance was fueled by his faith in Jesus Christ. When the world's smartest scientists tell you belief is foolishness, remember the man who decoded the human genome and still knelt in prayer.

Take Action

• Read Francis Collins' book "The Language of God" and share it with someone who struggles with faith and science.
• Visit BioLogos.org to explore resources on faith and science for your church or small group.
• Support Christian education and apologetics through www.TheShepherdsShield.org.
• Share this story with a young Christian studying science. Let them know that faith and discovery go hand in hand.
• Write to the National Academy of Sciences at nas@nas.edu to express appreciation for honoring a scientist who is open about his Christian faith.