He is among 154 new fellows and 15 foreign honorary members recognized for their distinguished contributions to science, scholarship, public affairs and the arts. Founded in 1780, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences seeks to cultivate the arts and sciences.
Members apply their diverse expertise to study issues of major intellectual and public concern.
The Distinguished Professor of Botany at UCR is also a University Professor, a prestigious University of California faculty appointment that is reserved for scholars of international distinction who are also respected as teachers of exceptional ability.