Michael N. Lehman, PhD, the Regents Endowed Professor and Chair of Biology at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, has been elected president of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB). His term began July 1. As president, Dr. Lehman will help guide FASEB’s efforts to advance biological and biomedical research, strengthen science policy and advocacy, and support the  scientific workforce during a pivotal time for the research community.  

A distinguished neuroscientist, Dr. Lehman’s research on the neural control of  reproduction and circadian rhythms has led to fundamental discoveries in  neuroendocrinology. Throughout his career, he has also demonstrated a strong  commitment to mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and scientific leadership,  bringing a valuable perspective to FASEB as it works to support researchers and advocate for science. 

Dr. Lehman previously served as President of the Society for Experimental Biology and  Medicine and continues to serve as Editor-in-Chief of the Fundamental and Mechanistic strand of the Journal of Neuroendocrinology. 

“I am honored and excited to begin my term as FASEB President—in my view, there is no more important time in recent history than now for FASEB to step up as a voice for the research community, and I look forward to leading our team in that effort. I am also passionate about the role of scholarly societies and believe that acting in unison through the federation makes us stronger, more resilient, and able to stand up for science and the future generation of researchers,” shared Dr. Lehman.  

Additional officers serving on the 2026–2027 Executive Committee include Lique Coolen, PhD, MBA, as Vice President-Elect for Science Policy. At New Mexico Tech, Dr. Coolen serves as Vice President for Research, and oversees all research activities and funding across New Mexico Tech, including ten of NMT’s Research Centers and Institutes, sponsored projects, research safety and compliance, and tech transfer and commercialization. Since August 2025 she also serves as Provost and Vice President for Academic affairs at New Mexico, overseeing all academic programs and faculty affairs.

As the federation looks ahead, FASEB remains dedicated to supporting researchers and  scientific societies, amplifying the voice of science, and advancing biological and  biomedical science through the collective power of the research community—stronger  together. 

Meet the 2026–2027 FASEB Executive Committee:  

• Michael N. Lehman, PhD, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology,  President 
• Melanie Scott, MD, PhD, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, President Elect 
• Judy Cannon, PhD, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Vice President for  Science Policy 
• Lique Coolen, PhD, MBA, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, Vice President-Elect for Science Policy 
• Zanthia Wiley, MD, Emory Division of Infectious Diseases, Vice President for  Biological Workforce Development and Engagement 
• Clifford Harding, MD, PhD, Case Western Reserve University, Treasurer 
• Clinton Allred, PhD, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Ad Hoc Board  Representative
• Joseph L. Cheatwood, PhD, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Ad Hoc  Board Representative