Translational Data Analytics Institute Faculty Director Tanya Berger-Wolf has been named a 2025 Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science—one of the most prestigious honors in the scientific community.

Berger-Wolf is among four faculty members at The Ohio State University selected for this year’s class of AAAS Fellows, which recognizes scientists and engineers for their distinguished contributions to advancing science and its applications. Fellows are elected by their academic peers.

Advancing AI for Science and Conservation

Berger-Wolf was recognized for her groundbreaking, interdisciplinary work at the intersection of artificial intelligence, data science, and ecology—particularly her leadership in advancing computational ecology and AI for scientific discovery.

As Faculty Director of TDAI, Berger-Wolf has helped position Ohio State as a leader in collaborative, data-driven research that bridges disciplines and tackles global challenges.

“I am deeply honored by this recognition,” said Berger-Wolf. “My work sits at an unusual intersection: foundational AI research on one side, and the urgent science of biodiversity and conservation on the other. I am glad this award acknowledges that both matter—and that the distance between them can be closed.”

Her work has played a critical role in shaping how artificial intelligence can be applied to real-world scientific problems, particularly in understanding and preserving biodiversity.

Leadership at TDAI

Under Berger-Wolf’s leadership, TDAI has expanded its role as a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration across Ohio State, supporting initiatives that connect faculty, students, and partners across domains—from AI and health to environmental science and beyond.

Her recognition as an AAAS Fellow reflects not only her individual research impact, but also the broader community of researchers working at the intersection of AI and science.

“This recognition also reflects the growing community of brilliant, passionate scientists working where AI and the science of nature meet,” she said.

About the AAAS Fellowship

The 2025 class of AAAS Fellows includes 449 scientists, engineers, and innovators across 24 disciplines. New Fellows will be formally recognized at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., later this spring.