Of Note

James Paulson and Ardem Patapoutian Elected AAAS Fellows

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has elected two new fellows from The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI): James Paulson, the Cecil H. and Ida M. Green Chair of Chemistry at TSRI and chair of the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, and TSRI Professor Ardem Patapoutian, who is also a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Investigator.

“James and Ardem have made extraordinary contributions to our understanding of glycobiology and sensory perception, respectively, and it is terrific to see them recognized by their peers in this manner,” said TSRI President Peter Schultz. “We all congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.”

Paulson was honored for his work in the biological sciences, specifically glycobiology—the study of the biology of saccharides (sugar chains or glycans). His lab’s research focuses on carbohydrate recognition and carbohydrate-binding proteins that mediate cellular communication in the immune system and the emergence of new pandemic influenza viruses in humans. His work has implications for the treatment of various conditions, including autoimmune disease, allergies, asthma and influenza. For more on his research, visit the Paulson laboratory website.

Patapoutian was recognized for his research in neuroscience. In 2010, Patapoutian and his lab colleagues discovered the Piezo proteins, which are ion channels in the cell membrane that regulate how cells sense mechanical force, thus contributing to our sense of touch. Further research in his lab has explored the workings of these channels and their relevance as targets for treating pain, hypertension and other conditions. For more on his research, visit the Patapoutian laboratory website.

Fellows of AAAS, founded in 1848, are elected based on their efforts to advance scientific applications deemed scientifically or socially distinguished. AAAS has awarded the distinction of Fellow to 391 of its members this year. Fellows will be presented with an official certificate and a gold and blue rosette pin on February 18 at the AAAS Fellows Forum during the 2017 AAAS Annual Meeting in Boston.

Send comments to: press[at]scripps.edu

paulson
James Paulson is the Cecil H. and Ida M. Green Chair of Chemistry at TSRI and chair of the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology. (Photo by BioMedical Graphics.)

Ardem Patapoutian is a professor at TSRI and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Investigator. (Photo by BioMedical Graphics.)

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Of Note

James Paulson and Ardem Patapoutian Elected AAAS Fellows