FSU President and Researchers Inducted into Florida Academy

Florida State University (FSU) President Richard McCullough was honored as part of a distinguished group inducted into the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida (ASEMFL) during an annual conference held on November 7, 2023, in Orlando. This year’s induction class recognizes several prominent researchers from FSU, underscoring the university’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

Six FSU faculty members were named among the ASEMFL’s 2025 inductees: Igor Alabugin, Richard Liang, Angelina Sutin, Christopher Patrick, Joseph Schlenoff, and Robert Schurko. Their collective achievements highlight significant contributions to their respective fields, ranging from organic chemistry to psychological research.

The ASEMFL seeks to address pressing issues in science, engineering, and medicine relevant to Florida’s populace. It provides unbiased expert advice and fosters collaboration among leading professionals. This year, members from esteemed organizations such as the National Academy of Inventors (NAI), the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), and the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) were invited to join ASEMFL, expanding its network of innovators.

In his acceptance speech, McCullough expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “It’s an honor to be inducted into the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida. I’m deeply gratified by this recognition of my work and humbled to be included among outstanding FSU researchers who have made significant contributions to their fields and continue to drive discovery and innovation.”

The accomplishments of the six FSU inductees further exemplify the university’s research excellence.

Angelina Sutin, a professor of behavioral sciences and social medicine, focuses on the psychological and social factors influencing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. She has secured over $11 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health and holds fellowships in prominent psychological societies.

Christopher Patrick, a Distinguished Research Professor and director of clinical training in psychology, has authored over 380 publications. His research delves into psychopathy, antisocial behavior, and substance abuse, earning him lifetime achievement awards from professional organizations.

Igor Alabugin, who has been with FSU since 2000, is renowned for his work in synthetic and theoretical organic chemistry. His research integrates experimental methods to discover novel reactions and design molecules used in molecular electronics. He received the Southern Chemist Award in 2023 for his pioneering contributions.

Joseph Schlenoff, a Robert O. Lawton Distinguished Research Professor specializing in polymer and materials science, has made significant strides in polyelectrolyte research. He is also a recent fellow of the National Academy of Inventors.

Richard Liang, the Sprint Eminent Scholar Chair Professor in the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, has an extensive background in advanced composites and nanomaterials. He has authored over 175 journal articles and holds 40 U.S. patents, contributing substantially to the field of materials science.

Robert Schurko is recognized as a leading authority in solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Since 2020, he has directed the NMR/MRI User Program at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, overseeing a team that supports over 300 global users each year.

McCullough and the FSU inductees join a prestigious group that includes other notable figures such as Murray Gibson, a professor at Florida A&M University, and Eric Holmes, a former assistant vice president for research, both of whom have made substantial contributions to their fields.

The induction into the Academy not only honors these individuals but also emphasizes Florida State University’s role in fostering innovation and research excellence in science and engineering. For more information about the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida, visit their official website.