The American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) is pleased to announce the results of the Society’s 2026 election. Members have elected new volunteer leaders who will help guide ASPB’s mission to advance plant science through research, education, publishing, and advocacy.
Gloria Muday Elected President-elect
ASPB members have elected Gloria Muday as the Society’s next President-elect. She will begin her term in October 2026, when current President-elect Tessa Burch-Smith assumes the presidency following the completion of Kent Chapman’s presidential term.
Read more about Muday on her election announcement blog.
Ravi Palanivelu Elected Secretary-Elect
Members also elected Ravishankar (Ravi) Palanivelu as Secretary-Elect.
Palanivelu is a professor at the University of Arizona whose research focuses on plant reproductive biology, cell-cell communication, and fertilization in flowering plants. Throughout his career, he has been an active contributor to ASPB through committee service, scientific leadership, mentoring, and community engagement. In his candidate statement, he emphasized the importance of strengthening member engagement, supporting scientists across career stages, and ensuring that ASPB remains a vibrant, inclusive community serving plant biologists around the world.
Liwen Jiang Named 2026 Enid MacRobbie Corresponding Member
Members also voted to name Liwen Jiang the Society’s 2026 Enid MacRobbie Corresponding Member, recognizing his distinguished scientific achievements and international leadership in plant biology. This honorary position reflects ASPB’s longstanding commitment to fostering global collaboration and celebrating outstanding contributions to the plant sciences.
Thank You to All Candidates
ASPB extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who participated in this year’s election, both the members who cast their votes and the outstanding candidates who were willing to serve the Society. Volunteer leadership is essential to ASPB’s success, and the Society is grateful for the dedication, expertise, and vision of all who stood for election.
Congratulations to Gloria Muday, Ravi Palanivelu, and Liwen Jiang. ASPB looks forward to working with each of these distinguished leaders as they help shape the Society’s future and continue advancing plant science worldwide.