Peter Salovey President | Yale University
Peter Salovey President | Yale University
Two Yale Faculty Members Elected to National Academy of Sciences
In a recent announcement, Nicholas Christakis and James Mayer have been elected to the prestigious National Academy of Sciences, marking a significant achievement in their respective fields. The academy, established in 1863, provides independent, objective advice to the nation on matters related to science and technology.
Dr. Nicholas Christakis, a sociologist and physician, has been a member of the Yale faculty since 2013 and is renowned for his expertise in social networks and biosocial science. His research delves into the intricate dynamics of social networks and their biological implications on human behavior. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Christakis conducted groundbreaking research on the interplay between social networks and contagion.
On the other hand, Dr. James Mayer, a chemist and the Charlotte Fitch Roberts Professor of Chemistry at Yale since 2014, is celebrated for his contributions to the study of chemical reactivity. His research focuses on understanding reactions involving proton and electron transfers in various systems, including transition metal complexes and organic molecules.
Election to the National Academy of Sciences is a prestigious honor, as highlighted by the statement that it is considered one of the highest accolades for U.S. scientists or engineers. This year, a total of 120 new members were elected, including these two distinguished Yale faculty members. Additionally, 24 international members were elected, bringing the total number of active members to 2,617 and international members to 537.
The recognition of Dr. Christakis and Dr. Mayer's exceptional contributions underscores their dedication and impact in their respective fields, further solidifying their positions as leading figures in academia.