Duke Professor Herman Pontzer Elected AAAS Fellow
Herman Pontzer, professor of Evolutionary Anthropology, has been elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), one of the most distinguished honors in the scientific community.
Pontzer’s research explores the physiology of humans and apes to better understand how ecology, lifestyle, diet and evolutionary history shape metabolism and health. His work also examines how ecological and evolutionary forces influence musculoskeletal design and patterns of physical activity. Through fieldwork and laboratory studies, Pontzer has helped reshape scientific understanding of energy expenditure and human health, challenging long-held assumptions about metabolism and calorie-burning.
His research has received extensive national and international media attention, with coverage in outlets such as Vogue, The New York Times, The Washington Post and NBC News.
AAAS Fellows are a distinguished cadre of scientists, engineers and innovators who have been recognized for their achievements across disciplines, from research, teaching, and technology, to administration in academia, industry and government, to excellence in communicating and interpreting science to the public.
In a tradition stretching back to 1874, these individuals are elected annually by the AAAS Council. Newly elected Fellows are recognized for their extraordinary achievements at the ceremonial Fellows Forum, a time-honored event where they are presented with a certificate and blue and gold rosette.
