The year 1738 in science and technology included many events, some of which are listed here.

See also: 1737 in science, other events of 1738, 1739 in science and the list of years in science.

Awards

• Copley Medal: James Valoue

Births

• November 15 - William Herschel, astronomer (died 1822)

Deaths

• September 23 - Herman Boerhaave, Dutch physician (born 1668)