In 1944, the the American Chemical Society awarded the Priestley Medal to James B. Conant “to recognize distinguished services to chemistry,” the Society’s most prestigious award.

The Society’s President Thomas Midgley Jr. said, “His influence upon chemistry in this country has been profound, and it can truly be said that our medalist’s name will always be remembered by posterity for his many contributions to the success of American chemistry.” Conant modestly accepted the award “on behalf of the chemists of the United States who have contributed so greatly to the winning of the war.”

In 1941, Conant became chair of National Defense Research Committee (NDRC), which contributed to the development of the atomic bomb. After the war ended, Conant was invited by President Harry S. Truman to chair the newly established Atomic Energy Commission, which he declined, although he did serve as chairman of the National Science Board. During President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s first term, Conant was asked in 1953 to serve as U.S. high commissioner to Germany during its reconstruction, which he did following his resignation from Harvard. Conant had served as president of Harvard University, from his appointment in 1933 until 1953.