The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) congratulates Dr Rosemary Sang, a distinguished virologist and Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences (FAAS), on her election as an International Member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences (NAS)—one of the highest honours accorded to scientists worldwide.

The National Academy of Sciences recently announced the election of 120 members and 25 international members in recognition of their distinguished and continuing achievements in original research. International members are selected from outside the United States and are recognized for their exceptional contributions to science and global knowledge advancement.

Dr Sang was elected in recognition of her outstanding work in virology, entomology and infectious disease research. She serves as Principal Research Scientist in the Arbovirology/Viral Hemorrhagic Fever Unit at the Centre for Virus Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), where she has dedicated her career to advancing research on emerging and re-emerging viral diseases that pose major public health threats across Africa.

Her research has been instrumental in strengthening Africa’s preparedness and response to vector-borne and zoonotic diseases, including Rift Valley fever, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and other viral hemorrhagic fevers. Through decades of scientific leadership, Dr Sang has contributed significantly to disease surveillance, discovery, outbreak response, mentorship and the development of strategies to protect vulnerable communities from infectious disease threats.

As a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences, Dr Sang represents the Academy’s commitment to recognizing excellence in African science and supporting researchers whose work transforms lives. Her election to the NAS is a strong affirmation of the global relevance and impact of African-led scientific research.

This recognition also highlights the growing prominence of African scientists in shaping global health security and advancing evidence-based solutions to complex health challenges. 

The AAS congratulates Dr Rosemary Sang on this prestigious achievement and celebrates her continued leadership in advancing scientific excellence, public health, and innovation in Africa and beyond.