In a prestigious international recognition, Prof. Ajay K. Sood India’s Principal Scientific Advisor, has been elected as an International Honorary Member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (AAAS). The honour, awarded for his significant contributions to public affairs and policy, places him among a distinguished group of thought leaders shaping the global discourse at the intersection of science, governance, and societal advancement.
Global Recognition for Indian Scientific Leadership
The AAAS 2025 cohort has named Prof. Ajay K. Sood as one of ten individuals of Indian origin. The cohort also includes global figures such as Satya Nadella, Ashish Jha, and Kavita Bala, highlighting the growing global footprint of Indian-origin professionals across diverse disciplines. The induction ceremony will occur in October 2025 in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Founded in 1780, the AAAS is one of the oldest and most esteemed scholarly societies in the United States, honoring excellence across the arts, sciences, humanities, and public service. The organization considers membership a signal honor, with past inductees including luminaries like Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr., and Charles Darwin.
From the Lab to Policy: Bridging Science and Governance
Since taking office as India’s Principal Scientific Advisor in April 2022, Prof. Sood has played a key role in shaping national policy. He has integrated cutting-edge scientific research with strategic governance. His election to AAAS recognizes his critical role at the interface of science and public policy. Evidence-based insights are increasingly vital to address complex national and global challenges. Commenting on the honor, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to it as a “rare distinction,” reinforcing India’s growing stature in global science and policy leadership.
Distinguished Career in Science and Innovation
Prof. Sood holds a Ph.D. in Physics and serves as a National Science Chair Professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore. He also chairs the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology & Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC). He has published over 450 research papers and holds multiple patents. His pioneering work in quantum materials, soft matter, and active matter reflects a deep commitment to both fundamental research and real-world applications.
Indian Diaspora’s Impact on the Global Stage
The inclusion of multiple Indian-origin members in this year’s AAAS cohort highlights a broader trend. It reflects the growing global recognition of Indian talent across fields such as technology, healthcare, and academia. This collective achievement reflects India’s rising intellectual capital. It also highlights the country’s contribution to addressing global issues through science, innovation, and strategic policy engagement.
Looking Ahead: Science as a Pillar of Global Strategy
The American Academy of Arts and Sciences has recognized Prof. Sood, marking more than a personal milestone. The shift in global policy thinking signals a new expectation. Nations like India are increasingly expected to provide scientific leadership. This includes areas ranging from climate change to emerging technologies. The AAAS’s mission brings together thought leaders from diverse backgrounds. This mission aligns closely with Prof. Sood’s vision of leveraging science for sustainable development, national progress, and international cooperation.
As the world grapples with urgent challenges, the integration of scientific insight into governance and diplomacy will be crucial. As reported by universitycube.net, Prof. Sood’s election is a testament to this evolving paradigm—and to the power of scientific diplomacy in shaping a better future.
