The AAAS Fellowship, established in 1874, has a long history of recognizing scientists, engineers, and innovators whose work has significantly advanced their fields. Election as an AAAS Fellow is a distinction that places recipients among the world’s most influential scientific minds. Past honorees include pioneering figures such as Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, and Jane Goodall, a leader in primatology and conservation. The program continues to celebrate those making profound impacts on research, innovation, and education.
“I am deeply honored to be named an AAAS Fellow,” said Dr. Hearne. “This recognition is a reflection of the outstanding teams and colleagues I have had the privilege to work with throughout my career. Advancing scientific discovery and mentoring the next generation of researchers has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work, and I am incredibly grateful to AAAS for this acknowledgment.”
For the past three years, Dr. Hearne has served as President and CEO of the Southeastern Universities Research Association (SURA), leading the organization’s efforts to foster collaborative research and innovation across its 56 member universities. Under his leadership, SURA is successfully managing the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (Jefferson Lab) in Newport News, VA, a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratory renowned for its groundbreaking contributions to nuclear physics.
Dr. James Weyhenmeyer, Chairman of the SURA Board of Directors, praised Hearne’s recognition. “Dr. Hearne has done an exceptional job in building the capacity and outcomes of not only SURA, but also relationships with public and private sector entities, and especially with the Jefferson Lab. His contributions to date and vision for the future promise to continue advancing the scientific landscape through his leadership and commitment.”
AAAS will formally honor the Fellows at the Fellows Forum in June of this year.