In 1952, the Priestley Medal was awarded to Samuel C. Lind by the American Chemical Society “to recognize distinguished services to chemistry,” the Society’s most prestigious award.

Lind was distinguished for his work on the kinetics of chemical reactions of various kinds, especially reactions induced by ionizing radiation. He is still particularly remembered for his early pioneering study, with Max Bodenstein in Leipzig, of the reaction between hydrogen and bromine.

His later research and his books were significant in placing on a firm basis the effects of radiation on the rates of reactions. He had wide experience in government laboratories and universities, and through his engaging personality exerted a strong influence on others.