Biologist Marta Wayne Named a Lifetime AAAS Fellow
Evolutionary geneticist Marta L. Wayne has been named a lifetime fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). The recognition, one of the most prestigious distinctions in science, is bestowed upon revered scientists and innovators across disciplines.
Wayne, who recently transitioned out of her role as Professor of Biology to lead operations as Dean and Associate Provost for the University of Florida International Center, specializes in the evolution and ecology of infectious disease and evolutionary genetics. Wayne was cited for distinguished contributions in the research of sex-specific genomics of gene expression and the role of RNA editing in viral and host genome evolution and fitness.
Wayne works tirelessly to encourage students as they embark on their own scientific career paths. She believes the key attributes for success in science are interrelated: resilience, stubbornness, and creativity. Whether it be from manuscripts, jobs, or grants, all scientists receive rejections, Wayne said. It’s all about coming back even stronger by reinventing yourself and your passions.
“Although I’m not a field biologist, my love of science is rooted in my love for the natural world and a desire to learn as much as I can about it,” she said. “Right now, that passion for understanding the world around me takes the form of making sure that as a university, we are embracing our global interconnectedness and training our students to be able to work with partners all over the world to solve the problems that beset us such as pandemics, global change, and more.”
Wayne is a fierce advocate for the international community at UF. This dedication stems from decades of experience living, working, and collaborating with people all over the globe. In her new role leading the International Center, she aims to grow the university’s international engagement in scholarship, research, and teaching. She also leads recruitment and support for international undergraduate and graduate students. These efforts extend UF’s reach and enable students to experience different countries and cultures.
“At this moment in my career, I’ve taken a hiatus from the lab and the classroom to focus on administration,” she said. “I don’t know if this will be temporary or permanent, but this fellowship is a lovely gift to close out the previous chapter. I’m humbled and grateful for this recognition.”
The 2022 class of AAAS Lifetime Fellows includes 19 faculty from the University of Florida — the greatest number of faculty ever awarded in a single year. View the full list of faculty here.
