Four academics from the University of Oxford have been elected as international members of the US National Academy of Sciences this year. The honorees include Véronique Gouverneur, Desmond King, Andrew McMichael, and Gero Miesenböck.
Véronique Gouverneur, Waynflete Professor of Chemistry at the Department of Chemistry, is recognized for her contributions to fluorine chemistry. Her work has advanced safe and sustainable manufacturing processes for fluorochemicals essential in various fields. She expressed her gratitude by stating: “I am thrilled to receive this recognition, and grateful to all members of my team who serve society through science. Becoming a member of the National Academy of Sciences is a privilege, and a superb opportunity to connect with a remarkable community.”
Desmond King, Andrew Mellon Professor of American Government at the Department of Politics and International Relations, focuses on comparative government and public policy among other areas. He commented on his election: “I am immensely grateful to the NAS for this great honour, which also attests to the wonderfully supportive environment of Oxford University especially colleagues in the department of politics and Nuffield College. Membership of NAS is a further opportunity to engage in high level social science research with colleagues in the US and elsewhere.”
Andrew McMichael, Emeritus Professor of Molecular Medicine at the Centre for Immuno-Oncology within the Nuffield Department of Medicine, has made significant discoveries related to T lymphocytes and innate immunity. On receiving this honor, he said: “I am deeply honoured by this award which recognises the work of all my team over many years. I have always greatly admired American science, which is world leading, both collaborative and competitive, and globally relevant. I look forward to continuing close interactions in the years ahead.”
Gero Miesenböck, Waynflete Professor of Physiology at the Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, pioneered optogenetics—a technology that allows neuroscientists new ways to study brain functions. He remarked: “Beyond the immediate joy of being invited into the company of distinguished colleagues, it is nice to form a thread in the international fabric of science, especially with everything that’s going on right now.”
The complete list of researchers elected to this year's National Academy can be accessed on their official website.