Two researchers elected as AAAS Fellows for shaping science of neurological conditions

UC Davis School of Medicine Professors Janine LaSalle and David J. Segal have been elected Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). With this lifetime honor, they join a century-long UC Davis legacy of AAAS Fellows who lead exceptional science scholarship.

School of Medicine scholars shaping science of neurological conditions

Janine LaSalle is a professor of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, affiliated with the MIND Institute and the Genome Center. She is also deputy director of the Environmental Health Sciences Center and co-director of the Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center. She was elected an AAAS Fellow for her pioneering research on gene x environment epigenetics (heritable chromosome changes that affect gene functions), specifically for autism. She's also being honored for her research on epigenetic mechanisms in neurodevelopmental conditions and the placenta.

David J. Segal is a professor and chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. He also holds appointments in the Department of Pharmacology, the UC Davis Genome Center and the UC Davis MIND Institute. Segal was recognized for his distinguished contributions to the field of molecular and translational genetics. He is a leader in developing gene editors like zinc finger (distinct DNA-binding protein structures that include zinc ions), TALE and CRISPR and applying them to treat neurologic conditions.

"This national recognition of Dr. Segal's and Dr. LaSalle's remarkable contributions to deciphering complex neurodevelopmental conditions, like autism and Angelman syndrome, speaks to their success in advancing science that can transform lives," said UC Davis School of Medicine Dean Susan Murin. "Becoming an AAAS Fellow is among the most distinct honors within the scientific community, and we are proud that their impactful work is being recognized."

A century of UC Davis AAAS Fellows

In 1926, Professor Tracy Storer became the first UC Davis elected a AAAS Fellow. Since then, 358 UC Davis professors have been elected. This year, in addition to Segal and LaSalle, two UC Davis professors were elected to this distinguished honor.

Joanna Chiu is a professor and chair of the Department Entomology and Nematology. She is recognized for her great contributions to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which circadian clocks integrate environmental and metabolic signals to regulate animal biological rhythms.

Gitta Coaker is a professor and Fiddyment Endowed Chair in the Department of Plant Pathology. She was elected for her work on plant pathology and immunity, particularly elucidating how plant receptors and bacterial components interface in disease. She is also recognized for her outstanding leadership and service to foster early career researchers.

The new Fellows have been invited to the annual Fellows Forum that will be held in Washington, D.C. on May 29.