Chinese scientist Tu Youyou, winner of the 2015 Nobel Prize for the discovery of artemisinin, at her home in Beijing. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese scientist Tu Youyou, winner of the 2015 Nobel Prize for the discovery of artemisinin, has been nominated for China's Medal of the Republic.

The selection of candidates for the national medals and honorary titles, held for the first time, is to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

The award is the country's highest honor for prominent figures who have made great contributions to the construction and the development of the PRC.

Together with Tu, seven other role models, including scientists and veterans, are also nominated for the medals of honor. Another 28 figures are nominated for the national titles of honor.