Winston Salem Times

Two researchers from Wake Forest University have been recognized as fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for 2024. The individuals honored are Kimberley McAllister, Professor of Biology and Translational Neuroscience, and Abdou Lachgar, Professor of Chemistry. These recognitions are part of a group of 471 individuals honored for their significant scientific and social contributions by AAAS, known as the world's largest general scientific society.

Wake Forest President Susan R. Wente commented, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to these two remarkable scientists. They are outstanding scholars in the important fields of neuroscience and renewable energy and contribute to Wake Forest’s ongoing mission to advance knowledge that can meaningfully improve lives.” Wente herself was honored as an AAAS Fellow in 2010 for her biochemistry research.

Provost Michele Gillespie remarked, “Dr. McAllister and Dr. Lachgar exemplify the very best of the teacher-scholar model that defines Wake Forest. Through their dedication to advancing knowledge and mentoring the next generation of scholars, they embody the collaborative, forward-thinking spirit that drives innovation at Wake Forest.”

Election as an AAAS Fellow, a tradition since 1874, is a lifetime honor. Notable past honorees include figures such as Ellen Ochoa and Steven Chu. In its history, Wake Forest has had 21 Fellows elected, including three of its presidents.

AAAS CEO and executive publisher of the Science family of journals, Sudip S. Parikh, noted, “This year’s class of Fellows are the embodiment of scientific excellence and service to our communities. 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.”

Kimberley McAllister is recognized for her work on cortical synapse formation during development and disease, with recent research focusing on the effects of maternal infection on psychiatric illness risk in offspring. She has published more than 80 works in her field.

Abdou Lachgar’s accolade as an AAAS Fellow highlights his contributions to materials science, with particular expertise in crystal framework engineering and green energy production. His projects include work on hydrogen storage, CO2 sequestration, and biofuel conversion, having authored over 130 papers and securing significant grant funding.

The AAAS, founded in 1848, is a nonprofit organization with more than 250 affiliated societies, aiming to advance science and serve society through various initiatives.