Pam Ronald, a faculty scientist in the Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology (EGSB) Division, has been honored with membership in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. She was recognized for trailblazing research and techniques to understand the plant response to infection and tolerance to environmental stress. The prestigious 239-year old honorary society recognizes accomplished scholars, scientists, and artists in academia, the humanities, arts, business, and government. The Academy’s elected members, together with other experts, join in cross-disciplinary efforts to produce reflective, independent, and pragmatic studies that inform public policy and advance the public good.

Ronald, who is also distinguished professor at UC Davis, studies plant genes that control resistance to disease and tolerance to environmental stressors, with the goal of using genetic engineering to improve food security for the world’s poorest farmers. Her work is internationally recognized and has led the charge in understanding plant disease.