The University of California announced on Apr. 2 that fifty of its researchers have been elected as fellows to the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), making UC the university with the most newly elected fellows this year.
This recognition is considered one of science’s highest honors, acknowledging significant achievements and service to society across scientific disciplines. AAAS, founded in 1848, is a nonprofit organization known for publishing peer-reviewed research journals under the Science family and is regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious scientific societies. The election results for AAAS’s Class of 2025 were made public on March 26.
According to university data, more than one in ten—11 percent—of all new AAAS fellows nationwide are affiliated with UC. The fifty honorees represent each of UC’s ten campuses and two national laboratories: Berkeley Lab and Livermore Lab. Notably, some scientists hold joint appointments between these labs and their respective campuses.
The honorary fellowship requires a significant record of cross-disciplinary achievement and approval by the AAAS Council. Being named a fellow is considered a lifelong honor within the scientific community. This year’s cohort includes a total of 449 scientists from across the United States.
Past recipients include Nobel laureates such as Jennifer Doudna and Barry Barish from UC, along with historical figures like Thomas Edison, W.E.B DuBois, Grace Hopper, and Maria Mitchell.
UC emphasized that federal funding plays an essential role in supporting its researchers’ work across every field represented among this year’s fellows. The university said continued investment from government partners enables advancements recognized by honors such as these.
Looking ahead, officials expect that this recognition will further highlight both individual achievements within UC’s academic community and underscore ongoing partnerships vital to advancing science nationally.
