Thomas Mote Named American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow

UGA Geography Distinguished Research Professor and Associate Vice President for Instruction, Thomas Mote, has been named a 2024 American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow for “extraordinary achievements leading to scientific advancement.” Dr. Mote’s achievement was highlighted in a recent UGA Research article by David Mitchell:

“Five University of Georgia faculty have been named Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, bringing the university’s total membership in the exclusive group to 50.

UGA’s new Fellows, who are elected each year by the AAAS Council to recognize scientific achievements, are Melissa Mitchum of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and Thomas Mote, Robert Schmitz, Michael Terns and Zheng-Hua Ye of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences.

“Through their research, these five individuals have made significant impacts in their respective fields, from plant pathology and genetics to climate impact to viruses and biotechnology,” said Chris King, interim vice president for research. “We are very proud to see them recognized with this honor and excited to see what the future holds for each of them.”

Mote, Distinguished Research Professor in the department of geography, studies how atmospheric patterns influence extreme weather from heavy rain and snow to melting ice. His research has spanned the polar regions, where he examines how weather systems affect Greenland’s ice sheet, to the Caribbean, where he has explored climate change, land use and dust effects on rainfall and drought.

“I am honored to be recognized by AAAS, an organization that plays a vital role in advancing science and serving society,” Mote said. “I am grateful to the University of Georgia for fostering a supportive environment that has advanced my science.”