Growing up in Biloxi, Miss., Dr. Floyd L. Wormely Jr. enjoyed educational activities like science fairs and experiments as a young student. His passion would later lead him to become a noted microbiologist – researching drug discovery, developing newer vaccines against emerging infectious diseases, and educating the public about the importance vaccinations, and supporting research in microbiology.
“I’ve always had an appreciation for science, dating back to junior high and high school. When I went to do my undergraduate at Tulane University, I had an opportunity to have a work study position to help fund my education,” Wormley recalled. “I worked at a virology and bacteriology laboratory at Louisiana State University Medical School also in New Orleans, studying bacterial and viral infections of the eye. That’s when I got hooked on doing microbiology.”
Wormley, the Microsoft President’s Endowed Professor in the University of Texas – San Antonio College of Sciences, was recently named a fellow to the American Association for the Advancement of Science. His election by his peers recognizes his distinguished contributions to the field of medical mycology, immunology and host-pathogen interactions.
He will be formally inducted at the 2019 AAAS Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. on Feb. 16.
Founded in 1848, AAAS is the world’s largest general scientific society. The tradition of electing AAAS Fellows began in 1874 to recognize members for their scientifically or socially distinguished efforts to advance science or its applications.
“This honor brings increased credibility which helps with funding. It also brings recognition to the work we are doing at UTSA and in the College of Sciences,” Wormley said.
After obtaining his undergraduate degree, Wormley was accepted into the graduate program at LSU Medical Center in New Orleans.
