List of members of the National Academy of Sciences (Plant, soil, and microbial sciences)
The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) is a United States non-profit, non-governmental organization established in 1863. Election to the NAS is a prestigious honor recognizing distinguished and continuing achievements in original research. This entry focuses on the subset of NAS members whose primary expertise lies within the fields of plant, soil, and microbial sciences.
Membership in the Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences section reflects contributions to a broad spectrum of research areas. In plant science, this encompasses plant biology, genetics, physiology, development, and interactions with the environment. Soil science expertise within the NAS includes soil chemistry, physics, fertility, microbiology, and genesis, with emphasis on understanding soil processes and their impact on ecosystems and agriculture. The microbial sciences component includes microbiology, virology, bacteriology, microbial ecology, and related disciplines, recognizing scientists who have significantly advanced our understanding of microorganisms and their roles in various environments.
The election process involves nomination by current NAS members, followed by a rigorous evaluation and voting procedure. New members are elected annually. The NAS member roster in these fields comprises leading researchers from universities, government laboratories, and private institutions. Their work contributes significantly to advancements in agriculture, environmental sustainability, human health (particularly in understanding plant-microbe interactions and infectious diseases), and fundamental scientific knowledge.
Access to the official and most up-to-date list of members can be found on the National Academy of Sciences website. The website provides details on each member's affiliation and research interests. It's important to consult the official NAS directory for the current and complete listing of members in this specific category, as membership changes annually.