Michael N. Lehman to Lead FASEB as President for 2026–2027

Michael N. Lehman to Lead FASEB as President for 2026-2027

Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Michael N. Lehman, PhD, the Regents Endowed Professor and Chair at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, has been elected president of FASEB. His term begins July 1, 2026. As president, Dr. Lehman will help guide FASEB's efforts to advance biological and biomedical research, strengthen science policy and advocacy, and support the scientific workforce during a pivotal time for the research community.

A distinguished neuroscientist, Dr. Lehman's research on the neural control of reproduction and circadian rhythms has led to fundamental discoveries in neuroendocrinology. Throughout his career, he has also demonstrated a strong commitment to mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and scientific leadership, bringing a valuable perspective to FASEB as it works to support researchers and advocate for science.

Dr. Lehman previously served as President of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine and continues to serve as Editor-in-Chief of the Fundamental and Mechanistic strand of the Journal of Neuroendocrinology.

"I am honored and excited to begin my term as FASEB President-in my view, there is no more important time in recent history than now for FASEB to step up as a voice for the research community, and I look forward to leading our team in that effort. I am also passionate about the role of scholarly societies and believe that acting in unison through the federation makes us stronger, more resilient, and able to stand up for science and the future generation of researchers," shared Dr. Lehman.

Joining Dr. Lehman in leadership is Melanie Scott, MD, PhD, who will serve as president-elect. Dr. Scott is an Associate Professor and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Dr. Scott brings extensive leadership and research experience that will support FASEB's strategic priorities in the years ahead.

Additional officers serving on the 2026-2027 Executive Committee include Judy Cannon, PhD, Professor at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, as Vice President for Science Policy; Lique Coolen, PhD, Vice President for Research at New Mexico Tech, as Vice President-Elect for Science Policy; Zanthia Wiley, MD, Professor of Medicine in the Emory Division of Infectious Diseases, as Vice President for Biological Workforce Development and Engagement; and Clifford Harding, MD, PhD, Joseph R. Kahn Professor and Chair of Pathology at Case Western Reserve University, as Treasurer.

FASEB also welcomes three new early-career representatives whose perspectives will help inform the federation's leadership and policy discussions while strengthening engagement with the next generation of scientists.

Lillian J. Brady, PhD, from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, will serve as the Board Early Career Representative. Zachary J. Fennel, PhD, from the University of Utah, and Kayla S. Ingram, PhD, from Coppin State University, will serve as Early Career Representatives on FASEB's Science Policy Committee.

Together, the 2026-2027 Executive Committee and early-career representatives reflect FASEB's commitment to cultivating leadership, advancing scientific excellence, and ensuring that researchers at every career stage have a voice in shaping the future of science.

As the federation looks ahead, FASEB remains dedicated to supporting researchers and scientific societies, amplifying the voice of science, and advancing biological and biomedical science through the collective power of the research community-stronger together.

Meet the 2026-2027 FASEB Executive Committee

• Michael N. Lehman, PhD, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, President
• Melanie Scott, MD, PhD, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, President-Elect
• Judy Cannon, PhD, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Vice President for Science Policy
• Lique Coolen, PhD, New Mexico Tech, Vice President-Elect for Science Policy
• Zanthia Wiley, MD, Emory Division of Infectious Diseases, Vice President for Biological Workforce Development and Engagement
• Clifford Harding, MD, PhD, Case Western Reserve University, Treasurer
• Clinton Allred, PhD, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Ad Hoc Board Representative
• Joseph L. Cheatwood, PhD, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Ad Hoc Board Representative

Learn more about the 2026-2027 Board of Directors.