Faculty of arts and sciences

School Notes: Faculty of Arts & Sciences
January/February 2022

Tamar Gendler | http://fas.yale.edu

Leading global scientific inquiry

Three recent achievements demonstrate the diversity of FAS leadership in the sciences. Debra Fischer, Eugene Higgins Professor of Astronomy, has been named director of the National Science Foundation’s Division of Astronomical Sciences, where she will lead the NSF’s mission to set astrophysics science priorities for researchers across the country. Jennifer Richeson, Philip R. Allen Professor of Psychology, was appointed to the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), a panel of researchers who advise the White House on science, technology, education, and innovation. Finally, John Wettlaufer, A. M. Bateman Professor of Geophysics, Mathematics and Physics, served as a co-opted member of the 2021 Nobel Committee for Physics, and in that role, gave the scientific presentation at the announcement of this year’s prize winners.

Three FAS faculty named Sterling Professors

The Sterling Professorship is among Yale’s most distinguished faculty honors, and three members of the FAS have recently been appointed to the rank. Sharon Hammes-Schiffer, Sterling Professor of Chemistry, is a leader in the field of theoretical chemistry, recognized for her groundbreaking work on chemical and biological reactions. Michael Della Rocca, Sterling Professor of Philosophy, is an authority on Spinoza and on the history of early modern philosophy, rationalism, and contemporary metaphysics, as well as epistemology and the philosophy of action. The work of Gary Tomlinson, Sterling Professor of Music and of Humanities, has extended beyond the study of music to encompass questions about human evolution and the origins of creativity itself. 

FAS launches “Meet the Professor” video series

The new “Meet the Professor” video series features members of the FAS telling the stories behind their research. The first installment profiles neuroscientist Damon Clark, whose work on animal perception is helping to unlock the mysteries of the mind. Videos are posted on the FAS website

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