ASCB members have elected Rebecca Heald, Professor of Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of California, Berkeley, to serve as the Society’s President in 2028.
Heald is an internationally recognized leader in cell biology, known for her pioneering research on cytoskeletal dynamics, cell division, and the physical principles underlying cellular organization. A long-standing and engaged member of ASCB, she has contributed to the Society through scientific leadership, mentorship, and service, and brings a deep commitment to advancing both discovery and community.
Her election reflects the Society’s confidence in her vision for the future of cell biology and the role ASCB plays in supporting scientists at every stage of their careers. As she progresses through ASCB’s presidential leadership track, Heald will help shape the Society’s direction during a time of rapid scientific innovation and evolving challenges for the research community.
“The American Society for Cell Biology serves our community at a time of tremendous scientific opportunity and responsibility,” said Heald. “As president, I would work to ensure that the Society remains the intellectual home for the most exciting advances in cell biology while cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment where every scientist can thrive.”
Looking ahead to her presidency, Heald is focused on strengthening ASCB’s role as both a scientific leader and a professional home for its members. Her priorities include advancing dynamic, interdisciplinary scientific programming; expanding career development and mentoring opportunities; and reinforcing ASCB’s commitment to broadening participation in the life sciences.
By aligning scientific innovation with community support, Heald aims to ensure that ASCB continues to elevate the discoveries of its members while fostering an inclusive environment where the next generation of cell biologists can succeed.
Tim Lane, Northwestern University, was re-elected to a second term as ASCB Treasurer.
New Council Members for 2027
ASCB members also elected four new members to the ASCB Council beginning in 2027:
- Dennis Discher, University of Pennsylvania
- Margaret Gardel, University of Chicago
- Anastasia (Stacy) Henry, University of California, San Francisco (Industry Seat)
- Crystal Rogers, University of California, Davis
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ASCB extends its sincere thanks to the members of the Nominating Committee for their dedication and service:
Andrew Campbell, Iain Cheeseman, Daniela Cimini, Andrew Ewald, Zev Gartner, Aron Jaffe, Laurie Littlepage, Mary Munson, Kandice Tanner, Matt Loeb, and Kevin Wilson.
About the Author:
This post was collaboratively written by several ASCB staff members.
