American Association for the Advancement of Science honours four U of T researchers

Four University of Toronto researchers have been elected Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the world’s largest scientific society and publisher of the prestigious journal Science.

Fellows are nominated by their peers and recognized for their efforts to advance science and its applications.

The 2012 Fellows are:

• Alberto Leon-Garcia of the Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, cited for distinguished contributions to the design, management and operation of communication networks and the creation of innovative educational programs in network engineering.

• Andreas Mandelis of mechanical and industrial engineering, cited for distinguished contributions to the development of diffusion-wave engineering sciences and associated technologies, and their practical application across several academic and industrial fields.

• Doug Perovic of materials science and engineering, cited for distinguished contributions to the study of heterostructures, microstructures and thin film nanostructures, and the development of the world’s first undergraduate degree program in nanoengineering.

• Locke Rowe of ecology and evolutionary biology, cited for distinguished contributions to evolutionary biology, particularly for those in life history theory and for the development of the field of sexual conflict and selection.

“Fellowship in the AAAS is one of the most prestigious milestones in a researcher’s career,” said Professor Peter Lewis, U of T’s associate vice-president (research and innovation). “These four researchers are at the tops of their fields, and we’re proud that they call the University of Toronto home.”

AAAS began electing fellows in 1874. Founded in 1848, its mission to advance science and serve society is fulfilled through initiatives in science policy, international programs and science education. The new Fellows were announced in the November 30 issue of Science and will be honoured at the AAAS Fellows Forum on Feb. 16, 2013 in Boston.