Newsmakers

Watson elected president of AAS

Professor of anthropology James L. Watson, the John King and Wilma Cannon Fairbank Professor of Chinese Society, has been elected to serve as the 61st president of the Association for Asian Studies (AAS). The AAS is the world’s largest organization of scholars specializing on Asian societies. Watson’s term of office includes a year as vice president (2002-03), followed by a year as president (2003-04).

Hayes hired as strength, conditioning coordinator

Director of Athletics Robert L. Scalise has announced the appointment of Sean Hayes as Harvard’s strength and conditioning coordinator. Hayes, who previously served as the strength and conditioning coach at the University of Tulsa, will be responsible for developing comprehensive strength and conditioning policies and procedures for an athletic department consisting of 41 varsity teams and approximately 1,500 athletes. He starts on Feb. 1.

Van Speybroeck wins 2002 Rossi Prize

Leon Van Speybroeck of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA) has been awarded the 2002 Bruno Rossi Prize by the High Energy Astrophysics Division of the American Astronomical Society. The prize, which includes an engraved certificate and a $1,500 award, recognizes significant contributions in high-energy astrophysics. It is awarded annually in honor of the late Massachusetts Institute of Technology Professor Bruno Rossi, an authority on cosmic ray physics and a pioneer in the field of X-ray astronomy.

E.J. Corey receives NAS Award

Sheldon Emery Research Professor of Chemistry E.J. Corey has been named the recipient of the National Academy of Sciences’ Award in Chemical Sciences. The award, which includes a prize of $20,000, is given annually for innovative research in the chemical sciences that contributes to a better understanding of the natural sciences and to the benefit of humanity. Corey was chosen “for his brilliant and useful contributions to the theory and practice of organic synthesis and to chemical biology and medicine.” He will receive the award at a ceremony in April in Washington, D.C.

– Compiled by Andrew Brooks