Bruce Hungate Elected to National Academy of Sciences for 2026 Class

Renowned Scientist Bruce Hungate Joins the Esteemed National Academy of Sciences

Bruce Hungate, a prominent figure in ecosystem science, has achieved one of the highest accolades in the scientific community, being elected to the 2026 class of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS). This prestigious honor marks a significant milestone in Hungate’s illustrious career and highlights his contributions to the field.

This year, Hungate is among 120 newly elected U.S. members and 25 international members who will be formally inducted. His induction will see him join a distinguished group of 3,262 active NAS members, including MacArthur fellows, Guggenheim fellows, and approximately 200 Nobel laureates.

Hungate remarked, “Election to the National Academy of Sciences is a profound honor, and I am grateful to receive it as part of the NAU community, which has been my scholarly home for 28 years.” He emphasized the collaborative nature of his work, stating, “As a microbial ecologist, I have spent my career studying how communities accomplish what individuals cannot, and this recognition feels true in exactly that sense.”

Beginning his journey at Northern Arizona University (NAU) in 1998, Hungate holds a B.A. in music and English and a B.S. in biology from Stanford University, a Ph.D. from the University of California Berkeley, and postdoctoral experiences at the Smithsonian Institution and Stanford University. His research delves into ecosystem responses to environmental changes, with a focus on soils, hot springs, and human interactions. Recent studies from Hungate’s lab have examined antibiotic resistance’s impact on public health, how soil microbes interact differently with warming climates, and the role of predatory bacteria in soil nutrient distribution.

NAU President José Luis Cruz Rivera expressed pride in Hungate’s recognition, stating, “Bruce Hungate’s election to the National Academy of Sciences is a landmark moment for Northern Arizona University and a powerful affirmation of the world-class research happening here.” He further noted that Hungate’s pioneering work has “deepened our understanding of the biological systems that shape our planet.”

Jason Wilder, NAU Vice President for Research, praised Hungate’s achievements as “incredibly impressive,” highlighting his status as a leading figure in ecosystem and climate change science. Wilder emphasized that Hungate’s accomplishments elevate NAU’s reputation as a premier institution for ecosystem science studies.

In addition to his NAS membership, Hungate is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the Ecological Society of America, and the American Academy of Microbiology. His career continues to inspire future generations of scientists and elevate the research profile of NAU.