Ellen Wright Clayton, Rosalind E. Franklin Professor of Genetics and Health Policy, Professor of Law and Professor of Pediatrics, has been elected to the Institute of Medicine (IOM), which functions both as an honorific membership organization and an advisory organization. Professor Clayton is the second member of the Vanderbilt law faculty elected to the IOM; University Professor James F. Blumstein is also a member. Established in 1970 by the National Academy of Sciences, the Institute
is recognized as a national resource for independent, scientifically informed analysis and recommendations on issues related to human health.
New members are selected by current active members from among candidates nominated for their professional achievement and commitment to service. "Members are elected through a highly selective process that recognizes people who have made major contributions to the advancement of the medical sciences, health care, and public health," said IOM President Harvey V. Fineberg. "Election is considered one of the highest honors in the fields of medicine and health."
With their election, members make a commitment to devote a significant amount of volunteer time as members of IOM study committees.
In addition to holding faculty appointments at Vanderbilt medical and law schools, Professor Clayton is Co-director of the Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society at Vanderbilt.