Universities Space Research Association Scientist Stephen Mackwell Elected as Fellow of AAAS

Columbia, MD. Nov 21, 2016. Universities Space Research Association and AAAS today announced Dr. Stephen Mackwell’s election as Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). AAAS recognized Dr. Mackwell for his “fundamental contributions to experimental investigation of physical properties of geological materials combined with critical leadership in the planetary science community.”

Each year, the organization elects Fellows whose “efforts on behalf of the advancement of science and its applications are scientifically or socially distinguished.” Election as an AAAS Fellow is an honor bestowed upon AAAS members by peers. This year 391 members have been awarded this honor by AAAS because of their scientifically or socially distinguished efforts to advance science or its applications.

Dr. Jeffrey Isaacson, President and CEO of USRA said, “We at USRA are very proud to have a such a distinguished scientist on our staff. Steve Mackwell’s meritorious contributions to the advancement of science, and his invaluable leadership in the planetary science community are outstanding examples of the positive impact he has left on the scientific field. His election to the rank of AAAS Fellow is a prestigious honor and yet another accolade in his distinguished career.”

The tradition of AAAS Fellows began in 1874. Currently, members can be considered for the rank of Fellow if nominated by the steering groups of the Association’s 24 sections, or by any three Fellows who are current AAAS members (so long as two of the three sponsors are not affiliated with the nominee’s institution), or by the AAAS chief executive officer. Fellows must have been continuous members of AAAS for four years by the end of the calendar year in which they are elected.

This year’s AAAS Fellows will be formally announced in the AAAS News & Notes section of the journal Science on 25 November 2016.

Dr. Mackwell will be honored at the AAAS Fellows Forum on February 18, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts, where he will receive his award during the AAAS Annual Meeting.