Dr. Lynn “Marty” Martin, a USF College of Public Health professor, has been named a fellow of the American Ornithological Society (AOS). The society is made up of a global network of professionals advancing the scientific understanding and conservation of birds. 

Martin, an expert in vertebrates such as birds and the diseases they carry, was elected as a fellow by the organization’s nomination committee and current members who are fellows. According to the AOS, “fellows are nominated based on their exceptional and sustained contributions to ornithology and/or service to AOS.” They are also “recognized for their experience, commitment and contributions to [their] discipline and our society.”

Since the mid-1950s, more than 500 experts in ornithology have been selected as AOS fellows.

“There are several people on the list of fellows already who were either mentors of mine or had a strong influence on how I think and do research,” Martin said. “Others were inspirational in the papers they wrote and the research they did, which helped me conceive and do my own projects, especially as a PhD student. It’s pretty cool to be tapped as a member of the same group as many of my intellectual heroes. It really is an enormous honor to be listed in such amazing company!”

In his role as a fellow, Martin, who was elected in the summer, will help shape and approve the bylaws of the AOS. 

Story by Donna Campisano, USF College of Public Health