Dean David Allison Named Sigma Xi Distinguished Lecturer

The organization's mission includes a commitment to "enhance the health of the research enterprise."

Sigma Xi recently named IUSPH-B Dean David Allison to their 2022–23 cohort of Distinguished Lecturers. Founded in 1866 at Cornell University, Sigma Xi promotes "excellence in scientific investigation and encourages a sense of companionship and cooperation among researchers in all fields of science and engineering." The scientific research honor society counts more than 200 winners of the Nobel Prize among its membership.

"Sigma Xi is such a wonderful organization in its dedication to promoting science and science education, especially among students, that it is truly a privilege to be involved," says Dean Allison. "I am not only deeply honored, I am overjoyed."

The Distinguished Lecturers program began in 1937 as an opportunity for members to connect personally and professionally with "outstanding individuals who are at the leading edge of science." It is supported by Sigma Xi members, the American Meteorological Society, the National Academy of Engineering, and the National Cancer Institute.

"David has a rare ability to explain and entertain at the same time," says Ivan Oransky M.D., editor-in-chief of Spectrum. "His lectures are evidence-based and funny; persuasive without being polemical; and full of history without being dated. They are accessible and highly informative for a range of audiences, from laypeople to scientists alike. There are good reasons why David is a highly sought-after speaker, and I know that he will bring a great deal to the Sigma Xi Distinguished Lectureship Program."

Dean Allison’s lectureship term begins July 1, 2022 and could include topics from his vast research career—including obesity, research rigor, and science mentorship.

Additional information about Sigma Xi Distinguished Lectureships is available at sigmaxi.org. For more IUSPH-B news, visit go.iu.edu/48bx.