DENTON (UNT), Texas -- University of North Texas Associate Professor of biology Pamela Padilla has been elected to the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science Board of Directors.

The society is dedicated to fostering the success of Chicano/Hispanic and Native American scientists – from college students to professionals – to attain advanced degrees, careers and positions of leadership in the science, technology, engineering and math fields. Founded more than 40 years ago, the society serves nearly 20,000 members with more than 100 chapters at colleges and universities throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

"I am proud and honored to be part of the SACNAS organization that assists thousands of individuals from across the country reach their academic and career goals," Padilla said. "It is my goal to work with UNT students by encouraging and facilitating their participation in this important STEM organization."

Padilla uses model systems to understand how living organisms at the cellular, genetic and molecular level respond to environmental stressors such as oxygen deprivation and high sugar diets. Both of these stresses are very relevant to human conditions such as heart problems, diabetes and obesity. Her research has continuously been supported by the National Institutes of Health as well as the National Science Foundation, and she has received numerous awards and fellowships throughout her career.

Padilla is a Kavli fellow. She was supported by the Glenn Scholars program at the Salk Institute and served as editor for the book "Anoxia" and as reviewer for many journals and granting institutes. She received an outstanding mentor award by Siemens Scholarships and was awarded UNT's early career award for research and creativity.