Tucson Standard

Four University of Arizona faculty members have been recognized as fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). The AAAS, known as the world's largest general scientific society, has named the U of A professors among its 471 new fellows.

Professor Liesl Folks, from the electrical and computer engineering department, is being recognized for her contributions to nanoscale magnetism and spin-electronic devices. Folks has extensively worked in research and development in Silicon Valley and has led initiatives focused on the resilience of semiconductor supply. She has also advocated for the participation of women and underrepresented groups in STEM fields. "It is a great honor to be elected as a fellow of the AAAS," said Folks.

Luciano M. Matzkin, professor of entomology, is acknowledged for his evolutionary biology work, specifically ecological genomics of cactophilic Drosophila. Matzkin's research focuses on how these fruit flies adapt to local environments and how sexual selection can generate reproductive barriers. "What really drove me back then and still drives me today is how cactophilic Drosophila is such a powerful system to ask fundamental questions in evolutionary biology," stated Matzkin.

Chemical and environmental engineering professor Armin Sorooshian is honored for his advancements in atmospheric chemistry and environmental engineering. His research on aerosol and clouds, as well as ozone levels, aims to improve air quality. Sorooshian highlighted the importance of aerosols in daily life and expressed his passion for teaching, saying, "I love the opportunity to get students excited about research with fieldwork."

Dr. Jil C. Tardiff, a professor of biomedical engineering, is recognized for her work in molecular and translational cardiovascular science, focusing on hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Tardiff, an expert on the genetic basis of this condition, noted its complexities and her ongoing efforts in developing new drug testing methods. "Patients have many morbidities – they have trouble exercising, climbing stairs and have a lot of difficulties with their day-to-day living as the disease progresses," Tardiff said.

U of A President Suresh Garimella expressed pride in the faculty members' accomplishments, noting, "This is a significant recognition and a testament to the impressive work done every day at the University of Arizona and the strength of our impact." The AAAS fellows will be honored at a forum in Washington, D.C., in June.

AAAS CEO Sudip S. Parikh recognized the fellows as "the embodiment of scientific excellence and service to our communities." He highlighted their work amidst an uncertain future for scientific enterprise.