Five faculty members from the University of Georgia have been elected as Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, increasing the university’s count in this distinguished group to 50.

The newly appointed UGA Fellows, selected annually by the AAAS Council to honor significant scientific contributions, include Melissa Mitchum from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, alongside Thomas Mote, Robert Schmitz, Michael Terns, and Zheng-Hua Ye from the Franklin College of Arts and Science.

“These five researchers have made remarkable strides in their respective areas, encompassing plant pathology and genetics to the impacts of climate, viruses, and biotechnology,” stated Chris King, interim vice president for research. “We are immensely proud to witness this recognition and are eager to see what lies ahead for each of them.”

Melissa Mitchum

Mitchum, a professor in the department of plant pathology and the Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics and Genomics at the Center for Applied Genetic Technologies, investigates the dynamics between nematodes and crops such as soybeans, tomatoes, and corn. By exploring how nematodes affect plant cells and identifying the genes that enable resistance to infection, Mitchum’s research aims to assist breeders in developing more resilient crops and discovering innovative strategies to safeguard agriculture against these pests.

“It’s the amazing teams, common goals, and collaborative efforts that have catalyzed groundbreaking scientific advancements that enhance plant health,” Mitchum expressed. “This honor reflects the exceptional teams of researchers I’ve had the privilege of working alongside, including fellow scientists, postdoctoral researchers, students, and staff throughout the years.”

Thomas Mote

Mote, a Distinguished Research Professor in the department of geography, investigates how atmospheric phenomena drive extreme weather events, from heavy precipitation to melting ice. His research encompasses the polar regions, where he studies how weather systems impact Greenland’s ice sheet, to the Caribbean, where he has researched climate change, land use, and the influence of dust on rainfall and drought.

“It is a privilege to be acknowledged by AAAS, an organization fundamental to the progression of science and the service to society,” Mote remarked. “I am thankful to the University of Georgia for creating a nurturing framework that has propelled my research.”

Robert Schmitz

Schmitz serves as a professor and Lars G. Ljungdahl Distinguished Investigator in the department of genetics and holds the UGA Foundation Professorship in Plant Sciences. His laboratory focuses on how epigenetic diversity allows plants to flourish in both natural and controlled settings. Moreover, his team is innovating new techniques to pinpoint DNA sequences that can be manipulated to accurately regulate when, where, and how strongly a gene is expressed, aiming to enhance crop efficacy.

“I’m honored to be designated an AAAS Fellow, yet this accolade truly belongs to the talented researchers in my laboratory, both former and current,” Schmitz stated. “Their commitment and inquisitiveness drive our advancements in plant epigenetics, and I’m thankful for their contributions and courage to challenge the limits of discovery.”

Michael Terns

Terns, a Regents’ Professor in the department of biochemistry and molecular biology, specializes in CRISPR-Cas systems, which are RNA-based adaptive immune mechanisms that protect against viral invasions. His research has provided insights into how bacteria defend themselves by capturing and preserving genetic pieces from previous invaders, presenting novel opportunities for gene editing technologies, treatments for diseases, and targeted antibiotics.

“I am profoundly honored and exhilarated by this acknowledgment of our research’s influence within the expanding domain of CRISPR biology and its ramifications for human health,” Terns shared.

Zheng-Hua Ye

Ye, a professor in the department of plant biology, investigates the molecular mechanisms governing secondary cell wall biosynthesis and the genetic controls involved in this process. His notable contributions include developing a trait in alfalfa that diminishes lignin content without compromising the plant’s structural integrity, leading to greater yields and enhanced nutritional quality for livestock.

“I am profoundly honored to have received this esteemed recognition, something I never imagined,” Ye expressed. “I am immensely grateful to my lab members, both past and present, for their innovative contributions, my collaborators and colleagues for their unwavering support, and the Department of Energy Basic Energy Sciences program for its continuous financial backing of my research pursuits.”

The 2024 cohort comprises 471 new inductees. The recently appointed Fellows will be celebrated at a forum in Washington, D.C., on June 7.

The article Five UGA faculty named 2024 AAAS Fellows was first published on UGA Today.