7 USC educators join esteemed ranks of AAAS fellows

For researchers, few accolades hold greater prestige than being chosen as a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science — a recognition comparable to receiving an Oscar, though without the glamorous red carpet and uncomfortable speeches. Being elected as an AAAS fellow reflects the esteem in which a scientist is regarded by their colleagues.

This year, seven USC educators have received this noteworthy honor: Richard Brutchey, Steven Finkel, Emily Liman, and Oleg Prezhdo from the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences; Yali Dou from the Keck School of Medicine of USC; and Satyandra K. Gupta and Costas Synolakis from the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. Their election — part of the 471 announced on Thursday morning — recognizes research that broadens human understanding, carries the potential to improve lives, and showcases USC’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

Richard Brutchey

Richard Brutchey, professor of chemistry at USC Dornsife, has been acknowledged for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of colloidal nanocrystal chemistry. His research group concentrates on developing innovative techniques for producing nanomaterials that hold promise for applications in catalysis, energy storage, and sustainability.

Brutchey mentions that his enthusiasm for mentoring students and guiding them to become independent researchers is crucial to his creative strategy. “Observing them utilize their knowledge and make a difference beyond our laboratory is far more gratifying than any singular discovery,” he stated.

His induction into the AAAS emphasizes the significance of his contributions to fostering innovation in materials science. His advancements in nanotechnology have the potential to transform energy and environmental solutions, exemplifying how scientific progress can translate into practical applications.

Read USC Dornsife’s article regarding the college’s new AAAS fellows.

Yali Dou

Molecular biologist Yali Dou holds the Marion and Harry Keiper Chair in Cancer Research, serves as a professor of medicine and cancer biology at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, and is the associate director for basic research at the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dou is a prominent figure in the exploration of epigenetics, the processes that allow the unique instructions in DNA to manifest as diverse cell types and tissues.

Reflecting on the achievements of other newly elected AAAS fellows, she observes that she is in excellent company.

“Many remarkable scientists are being honored in this manner,” expressed Dou, who also co-directs the PhD program in molecular medicine at the Keck School of Medicine. “It is a privilege to be part of this distinguished group. Now more than
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Nevertheless, it is essential to appreciate the impact of science and researchers on our community.”

She readily attributes the recognition for the progress that has emerged from her research efforts.

“I wish to commend everyone in my lab who has played a crucial role in my journey,” Dou remarked. “They are truly the ones who execute the tasks, so I share this accolade with them.”

Read the full report from the Keck School of Medicine regarding Dou’s selection as an AAAS fellow.

Steven Finkel

Steven Finkel, a professor of biological sciences at USC Dornsife, has been honored for his groundbreaking contributions to microbial physiology and molecular biology. His investigations delve into the core processes of microbial existence, which have extensive implications for both fundamental biological principles and practical uses in natural settings.

Finkel expresses that his enthusiasm for confronting yet unanswered inquiries in his specialty drives his work, which he describes as “an excellent mix to keep you inspired as a scientist.” This enthusiasm fuels his commitment to fostering scientific understanding and mentoring future scholars.

Finkel’s election emphasizes the importance of his research in pioneering advancements in microbial sciences, broadening comprehension of microbial biology, and fostering innovative strategies to tackle environmental and health issues. 

Read USC Dornsife’s article regarding the new AAAS fellows associated with the college.

Satyandra K. Gupta

Satyandra K. Gupta serves as the founding director of the USC Center for Advanced Manufacturing and holds the Smith International Professorship in Mechanical Engineering. He is also a professor at USC Viterbi in aerospace and mechanical engineering as well as computer science. At the Center, he leads teams of researchers and students in the creation of cutting-edge smart manufacturing and human-centric automation technologies.

With 24 patents and over 500 publications in journals, conference proceedings, and book chapters, Gupta exemplifies USC faculty engaged in both academic research and the transfer of technology to the industrial sector. He is a member of several esteemed organizations, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, and the Solid Modeling Association.

“It is an honor to join the ranks of past AAAS fellows who have devoted their lives to enhancing human welfare through scientific discovery,” Gupta stated. “This recognition acknowledges our innovations in human-centered automation aimed at minimizing health risks for workers, promoting sustainability, enhancing product quality, and fortifying the U.S. manufacturing landscape.”

Emily Liman

Emily Liman, a professor of biological sciences at USC Dornsife and the Harold Dornsife Chair in Neurosciences, has been celebrated for her groundbreaking investigations into ion channels, specifically those crucial for sensory detection. Her research led to the discovery of a novel category of ion channels, including one that acts as a sour taste receptor. This success, she noted, is a testament to the creativity and determination of her lab team and collaborators.

Liman highlights the excitement of discovery as a motivating force for scientists like herself: “We pursue this for the sheer joy of discovery — to witness or learn something novel that has never been seen or known before.”

Liman’s AAAS election underscores the significance of her identification of OTOP proton channels, revolutionizing our understanding of sensory biology and unveiling new pathways for examination of taste detection and cellular communication.

Read USC Dornsife’s piece on the college’s list of new AAAS fellows.

Oleg Prezhdo

Oleg Prezhdo, an associate professor of chemistry, physics, and astronomy at USC Dornsife, has earned recognition for his innovative advancements in quantum chemistry and nanoscale systems, specifically those ranging from one to 100 nanometers. His research employs sophisticated computer simulations to investigate how minute particles behave in materials and very small constructs, assisting in elucidating and predicting material behavior at the tiniest scales.

Prezhdo’s work holds substantial ramifications for solar energy and light-interacting electronics, showcasing how foundational research can lead to technological innovations that enhance human living conditions.

Motivated by the potential of scientific inquiry to spur technological advancement and improve lives, Prezhdo commented, “Observing how fundamental studies culminate in worldwide technologies that alter lives serves as a powerful long-term motivation.”

Prezhdo’s election as an AAAS fellow highlights the international repercussions of his research in fostering progress in quantum chemistry. His efforts promote collaboration across different disciplines, emphasizing the critical role of interdisciplinary innovation in advancing scientific understanding.

Read USC Dornsife’s article about the college’s new AAAS fellows.

Costas Synolakis

Costas Synolakis’ research on tsunamis and severe flooding has shaped policy decisions and recovery programs for disasters on a global scale. At USC Viterbi, he holds the position of Gordon S. Marshall Professor of Engineering Technology and professor of civil and environmental engineering, focusing on unusual tsunami amplification phenomena and the climate-related impacts on extreme weather events.

In 1996, Synolakis established the USC Tsunami Research Center, which developed the operational code utilized in the United States and Australia for tsunami forecasts and was integral to California’s official evacuation planning frameworks.

His early work focused on analytical solutions for the ascent of solitary waves on flat beaches. He subsequently formulated the well-known principle referred to as Synolakis’ law, which describes the relation between the height of solitary waves, the slope of the beach, and the offshore depth.

“I have been reading Science Journal (published by AAAS) and attending AAAS meetings since my time as a graduate student,” Synolakis remarked. “AAAS has contributed significantly to my development as a researcher, shaped my scientific ethics, and prepared me for the national academies. Being named a fellow is a profound honor that I will cherish; I only aspire to give back to AAAS as much as I have received.”

About AAAS and the fellowship

The nonprofit organization AAAS, established in 1848, serves 10 million individuals via over 250 affiliated societies and academies, with a mission to “advance science and serve society” through efforts in science policy, international initiatives, science education, and public engagement.

AAAS fellows are acknowledged for their accomplishments in research, education, technology, and management, as well as their excellence in conveying and interpreting science to the general public.

This year’s newly elected scientists, engineers, and innovators will be honored at a forum in Washington, D.C. on June 7.

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USC Dornsife news staff and USC’s Matilda Bathurst, Wayne Lewis, and David Medzerian contributed to this report.