Dr. Tom Terwilliger/Courtesy photo
NEW MEXICO CONSORTIUM NEWS RELEASE
The New Mexico Consortium (NMC) is proud to congratulate Dr. Tom Terwilliger for being elected to the National Academy of Sciences (NAS)—a tremendous achievement that recognizes a lifetime of scientific excellence and leadership. Election to the NAS is one of the highest honors bestowed upon scientists in the United States, highlighting individuals who have made outstanding contributions to research and discovery.
Dr. Terwilliger spent many years as a scientist at LANL and is now a senior scientist at NMC. He has long been at the forefront of computational structural biology. His work has fundamentally advanced the way researchers solve macromolecular structures, which are vital to understanding the function of biological systems at the molecular level.
One of Dr. Terwilliger’s most significant contributions is in the development of automated methods for determining the 3D structures of proteins and nucleic acids using X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). He has led the creation of several software tools—such as SOLVE, RESOLVE, and key components of the Phenix software suite which have enabled researchers around the world to determine complex structures with greater speed and accuracy.
Beyond algorithm development, Dr. Terwilliger’s innovations have played a vital role in biomedical research. His tools have been applied in numerous studies ranging from viral protein structure determination to drug target discovery, ultimately supporting efforts in vaccine design and therapeutic intervention. In recent years, his methods have been instrumental in solving structures related to SARS-CoV-2, providing critical insights during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The National Academy of Sciences election not only honors Dr. Terwilliger’s individual brilliance, but also shines a spotlight on collaborative science. His work exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary research and the global impact of scientific innovation originating from northern New Mexico.
The NMC extends their heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Terwilliger. His recognition by the NAS is richly deserved and serves as an inspiration to current and future scientists alike.
Read the NAS press release for more information at: https://www.nasonline.org/news/2025-
nas-election/