Dresselhaus received numerous prestigious awards and recognitions throughout her career:
- National Medal of Science: Awarded in 1990 for her outstanding contributions to science and engineering. - Enrico Fermi Award: Received in 2012 for her work in energy science. - IEEE Medal of Honor: Given in 2015 for her leadership and contributions to the understanding of electronic properties of materials. - Presidential Medal of Freedom: Awarded in 2014, the highest civilian award in the United States.