Department of Astronomy faculty members Laura Lopez (Associate Professor) and David Weinberg (Distinguished University Professor) have been named as 2025 Fellows of the American Astronomical Society. 

Prof. Lopez has been acknowledged for outstanding research contributions in the multiwavelength study of supernovae, compact objects, star formation, the interstellar medium, and galaxy evolution; for extensive contributions in advancing equity and inclusion in astronomy and physics through transformative mentorship programs; and for nearly 20 years of national leadership in the AAS. 

Prof. Weinberg has been acknowledged for foundational contributions to the theory of galaxy formation, the theory and cosmological applications of the Lyman-alpha forest, and the theoretical and observational study of large-scale structure and dark energy; and for exemplary service and dedication to the astronomical community through multiple leadership roles within the Sloan Digital Sky Survey.

The 2025 AAS Fellows now represent the sixth class recognized for enhancing and sharing humanity’s scientific understanding of the universe through personal achievement and extraordinary service to the astronomical sciences and to the AAS. This is an honor bestowed on less than 0.5% of AAS’s membership each year.

“The collective successes achieved by the 2025 AAS Fellows class reflect the ongoing mission of the AAS to enhance and share humanity's scientific understanding of the universe, as represented by this diverse community,” says AAS President Dara Norman (NSF’s NOIRLab). The 2025 AAS Fellows now represent the sixth class recognized for their personal achievement and extraordinary service to the astronomical sciences and to the AAS.