Duquesne University professor John Pollock was recently named a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He was chosen due to his contributions to the field of neurobiology and pain research, in addition to his other work.
Duquesne University professor John Pollock was recently named a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He was chosen due to his contributions to the field of neurobiology and pain research, in addition to his other work.
Samantha Zapach | Staff Writer
12/06/2018
Duquesne University Professor John Pollock of the Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences was recently named as one of the fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
AAAS is known as being one of the world’s largest science societies. According to its website, “The American Association for the Advancement of Science (founded in 1848) bestows a lifetime honor of being an elected fellow in recognition of extraordinary achievements in advancing science.”
Each year, AAAS elects individuals who have made extreme efforts for advancement in the science community. Existing members who are fellows nominate individuals who are then voted on by the AAAS council.
AAAS elected Pollock as a fellow for his distinguished contributions to the field of developmental neurobiology and pain research, and also STEM education outreach to museums, schools and the public using digital media.
Pollock is a graduate of Syracuse University with a B.S. in physics, M.S. in physics, and Ph.D. in biophysics. He previously conducted neurogenetic research at Caltech, Pasadena and was a professor of biology at Carnegie Mellon University for 12 years prior to joining the faculty at Duquesne.
In the past, Pollock has been recognized as a recipient for numerous awards including, but not limited to, the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM class of 2015 – awarded June 2018) awarded by the White House; the 2017 Apple Distinguished Educator by the Apple Corporation and various other awards from Duquesne University.
Pollock shared how receiving the award from AAAS has not only meant a lot to him, but affirmed the importance of his work.
“It is validating to receive such an honor,” Pollock said. “I have worked in two domains of science: discovery research in the fundamental biology of the developing and functioning nervous system and separately in communicating the principles of science to kids and the general public through storytelling and digital media. I also research how people learn from digital media. Having AAAS recognize me for both is wonderful.”
To commemorate his prestigious accomplishment, Pollock will be honored at the AAAS Fellows Forum during the 2019 AAAS Annual meeting in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 16, 2019. There, he will be presented with an official certificate and a gold-and-blue rosette pin.
