West LA Times

Ten faculty members from the University of California, Los Angeles, have been selected as fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). This announcement was made today by AAAS, the largest multidisciplinary scientific society globally.

These UCLA researchers are part of a group of 471 newly elected fellows recognized for their contributions to science and its various applications in society. They will be celebrated at a forum on June 7 in Washington, D.C.

“This year’s class of fellows are the embodiment of scientific excellence and service to our communities,” stated Sudip S. Parikh, the CEO of AAAS. “At a time when the future of the scientific enterprise in the U.S. and around the world is uncertain, their work demonstrates the value of sustained investment in science and engineering.”

AAAS was established in 1848 and has grown into a nonprofit organization publishing Science and associated peer-reviewed journals. It boasts more than 120,000 members across nearly 100 countries and is connected with over 250 affiliated societies and academies of science serving 10 million members.

The UCLA faculty members newly named as AAAS fellows include:

Troy Carter, a professor of physics and astronomy, investigates waves, instabilities, and turbulence in magnetically confined plasmas. His work predominantly centers on nuclear fusion for carbon-free electricity generation. He is currently on leave from UCLA, directing the fusion energy division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Jane Chang, a professor of chemical, biomolecular engineering, and materials science, is known for her work on complex oxide films with tailored properties. Her research facilitates advancements in microelectronics and energy devices among other fields.

Yvonne Hernandez-Kapila from UCLA's School of Dentistry studies oral and systemic disease connections, focusing on cancers and microbial interactions impacting human health.

Mona Jarrahi, who studies novel electromagnetic techniques, aims to enhance terahertz technology applications in fields ranging from medical imaging to atmospheric research.

Gregory Okin analyzes physical, chemical, and biological processes across landscapes to understand environmental patterns and Earth system interactions, especially in drylands.

James Rheinwald researches molecular and genetic processes in skin cells, contributing to strategies for cancer treatment and drug testing methodologies.

Barney Schlinger examines hormonal influences on brain structure and function, focusing on complex behavior in vertebrates like songbirds.

David Saltzberg investigates fundamental forces and particles and is involved in significant research at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider.

Stephanie Ann White explores brain biology in communication, particularly gene expression and neural circuits in birds, contributing to autism research.

Chee Wei Wong specializes in quantum optics and photonics, aiming to advance device optoelectronics with various industrial applications.

These honorees reflect UCLA's broad spectrum of scientific achievement and continued commitment to advancing knowledge across multiple disciplines.