The academy is one of the oldest and most prestigious organizations of its kind
Gregory Robinson, University of Georgia Foundation Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. One of the oldest and most prestigious organizations of its kind, the academy was founded in 1780, and its membership includes historical icons such as Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Albert Einstein and Martin Luther King Jr., among many others.
“I want to congratulate Dr. Robinson on his well-deserved election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences,” said UGA President Jere W. Morehead. “This impressive accomplishment honors Dr. Robinson’s extraordinary career and demonstrates the groundbreaking research being conducted by our outstanding faculty each and every day.”
Nearly 250 members were elected in 2025, including renowned figures like CNN news anchor Anderson Cooper, actor and humanitarian Danny Glover, filmmaker Ava DuVernay and World Central Kitchen founder José Andrés.
“These new members’ accomplishments speak volumes about the human capacity for discovery, creativity, leadership and persistence. They are a stellar testament to the power of knowledge to broaden our horizons and deepen our understanding,” said Academy President Laurie L. Patton. “We invite every new member to celebrate their achievement and join the academy in our work to promote the common good.”
A UGA faculty member since 1995, Robinson has conducted research with applications in sustainable energy, among other areas. His recent work has sought to address unique challenges in chemistry, such as the preparation of molecules relevant to nanotechnology or the molecular development of carbon-free fuels. Robinson and his team synthesize molecules that feature earth-abundant and less toxic resources to mimic the chemistry of expensive and rare transition metals.
“As one of the leading scholars in the world today, Dr. Robinson exemplifies the diligence and acumen that leads to scientific innovation celebrated by his election as a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences,” said Dean Anna Stenport of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. “A dedicated mentor and teacher whose groundbreaking research brings international prestige to our campus, we are extraordinarily proud of his achievements and honored that he is part of our faculty and our community.”
Robinson was named to the National Academy of Sciences in 2021. Over the years, he has garnered several prestigious awards for his work, including the Herty Medal (2008), the Humboldt Research Award (2012), the F. Albert Cotton Award by the American Chemical Society (2013) and the Southeastern Conference Faculty Achievement Award (2014).
“Dr. Robinson’s election is an incredible honor,” said interim Vice President for Research Chris King. “It reflects his many years of tireless work, pioneering research and dedicated service not just to the University of Georgia but to his entire field and all those it impacts.”
Robinson is the 13th UGA faculty member elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Induction ceremonies for new members will take place in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in October.
“Being elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences is both humbling and tangible validation of our research,” Robinson said. “While I remain indebted to my students, co-workers and colleagues, I also am constantly amazed by the transformative power of science.”
