Nobel Laureate (2012) Shinya Yamanaka (photo), M.D., Ph.D., a Senior Investigator at the Gladstone Institutes in San Francisco and inventor of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine. “This latest accomplishment further acknowledges Shinya’s tremendous contributions to the fields of science and medicine. His discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells has revolutionized biomedical research and has the potential to improve the lives of millions. This distinction is well deserved,” says Gladstone President R. Sanders “Sandy” Williams, M.D. “It is a great honor to be named to this distinguished institution and join such an esteemed group of scientists. It is especially meaningful that the decision is made by a panel of my peers,” says Dr. Yamanaka, who is also the L.K. Whittier Foundation Investigator in Stem Cell Biology at Gladstone, a Professor of Anatomy at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and Director and Professor at the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University in Japan. Election to the National Academy of Medicine, formerly the Institute of Medicine, is considered one of the highest accomplishments in the fields of health and medicine and recognizes individuals around the world who have demonstrated outstanding professional achievement and commitment to service. “Our newly elected members represent the brightest, most influential, and passionate people in health, science, and medicine in our nation and internationally,” said Academy President Victor J. Dzau in a press release (http://nam.edu/nam-elects-80-new-members/) announcing this year’s election of new members. “They are at the top of their fields and are committed to service.Login Or Register To Read Full Story