The honor is bestowed on members whose "efforts on behalf of the advancement of science or its applications are scientifically distinguished." Founded in 1848, the American Association for the Advancement of Science is the world's largest federation of scientists.
Albrecht was recognized for his distinguished contributions in the areas of political economy of human disability and rehabilitation and for empirical studies of the well-being and quality of life of disabled people. He will be presented with a certificate and pin at the association's meeting in Boston on Feb. 16.
"This honor gives serious recognition to the scholarly nature of research in disability and that the best work is theoretically driven," says Albrecht. "Teaching awards give me a great deal of pleasure, but it is wonderful to be recognized and accepted as a serious international scholar."
Albrecht has received continual research funding for 31 years, totaling $24 million. He has received numerous teaching and research awards and has published 15 books.
His most recent book, the "Handbook of Disability Studies," published in June 2001 with substantial funding from the National Institute of Disability and Rehabilitation Research, is being used as an essential teaching and research resource for disability studies around the world.
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