Awards, People, Science & environment

Microbiologist elected to National Academy of Sciences

By Brett Israel

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UC Berkeley professor Mary Firestone is one of 84 new members and 21 foreign associates elected to the National Academy of Sciences. The academy is the most prestigious scientific society in the U.S., established under a congressional charter signed by Abraham Lincoln in 1863.

Firestone is a professor of soil microbiology in Berkeley’s Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management. Her work includes developing a greater understanding of the soil microbial environment, as well as applying that knowledge toward advancements in issues relating to sustainability, biodegradation and soil structure.

With the National Academy of Engineering, the Institute of Medicine and the National Research Council, the NAS provides science, technology and health policy advice to the federal government and numerous organizations. UC Berkeley is currently home to 150 NAS members.

Read the National Academy of Sciences announcement