Rutgers Vice President for Global Affairs honored for his contributions to global science and African scholarship
Rutgers University’s Vice President for Global Affairs, Dr. Eric (Rick) Garfunkel, has been elected as a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS), joining an elite group of eighty-eight distinguished scientists and scholars (16 from beyond the continent) recognized for their exceptional contributions to scientific advancement and scholarship.
The African Academy of Sciences, in a recent announcement, highlighted that the newly elected Fellows underwent a rigorous and merit-based selection process. These scholars were nominated and elected based on (i) demonstrated excellence in their respective fields, and (ii) have played a pivotal role in advancing science, technology, and policy in Africa and on the global stage. Their election underscores their commitment to addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges through impactful research and academic leadership.
AAS Fellows are recognized not only for their scientific breakthroughs but also for their role in shaping policies that drive sustainable development across the continent. By welcoming the new Fellows, the Academy strengthens its global network of leading scientists, fostering knowledge exchange, mentorship, and collaborative research aimed at transformative change.
Professor Lise Korsten, President of the AAS, expressed her enthusiasm about the newly inducted Fellows, stating: “We are delighted to welcome these exceptional scientists and scholars into our Fellowship. Their expertise and leadership in their respective fields are invaluable assets in advancing Africa’s scientific agenda. As an Academy, we remain committed to harnessing the power of science, technology, and innovation to drive sustainable development in Africa.”
About Dr. Eric (Rick) Garfunkel
Eric Garfunkel, a distinguished professor of Chemistry and Physics at Rutgers, has played a critical role in advancing materials research, with a focus on nanoelectronics, alternative energy solutions, and catalysis. His work has been supported by the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy, and the semiconductor industry. His contributions to high efficiency nanoelectronics (computer chips) and solar driven hydrogen generation technologies have had a significant impact on the semiconductor industry and alternative energy solutions.
As vice president for global affairs at Rutgers University since 2015, Garfunkel has spearheaded the institution’s internationalization efforts, overseeing global partnerships, study abroad programs, and services for over 8,000 international students and scholars. His commitment to fostering international collaboration has been particularly instrumental in strengthening ties between African and U.S. academic institutions.
For more than two decades, Garfunkel has played a leading role in the African Materials Research Society (AMRS), a network of over 1,000 scientists and engineers across Africa and the African diaspora. Through his leadership, he has supported AMRS biennial conferences and facilitated workshops that bridge African and U.S. scientific communities. His efforts have helped shape a major STEM partnership initiative focused on economic development and higher education collaboration.
Garfunkel is also an active member of Rutgers’ Center for African Studies and has been instrumental in hosting the Mandela Washington Fellows and other African scholars. His election to the AAS Fellowship not only recognizes his scientific achievements but also honors his commitment to fostering scientific and educational partnerships that benefit Africa and beyond.
The African Academy of Sciences welcomes its newly elected Fellows and looks forward to their contributions in advancing its mission of transforming lives through science. To learn more about the AAS Fellowship and the full list of newly elected Fellows, visit the official AAS website.