Chicago City Wire

Thorsten Lumbsch, Vice President of Science at the Field Museum, has been appointed to the academic staff of the Royal Academy of Sciences (RAC). The RAC stated that Lumbsch’s research showing that the diversification of modern lichens happened alongside that of land plants has changed how scientists understand lichen diversity, their evolutionary history, and global distribution. With this appointment, the RAC now has 105 international academic staff members.

Julian Siggers, President and CEO of the Field Museum, commented on the recognition: “This is a wonderful honor, and well-earned. The Field Museum is delighted to see our colleague Thorsten Lumbsch recognized in this way for his exceptional scholarship and many impactful contributions to the study of lichens.”

Lumbsch, originally from Germany, joined the Field Museum in 2003. He is also a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). According to RAC, he has published five books, 20 chapters, and over 580 articles. He has described more than 300 species of lichen, including many cryptic species.

In response to his appointment, Lumbsch said he feels humbled and honored by RAC’s acknowledgment. “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Ana Crespo for her enduring collaboration and support as both a colleague and mentor,” he said. “I am equally grateful to my colleagues at the Field Museum, whose encouragement and support have helped me throughout my career.”