Jens Ludwig elected to prestigious Institute of Medicine for research on social determinants of health

Jens Ludwig, one of the nation's leading researchers applying scientific tools to the study of social issues such as crime, poverty, and health, has been elected to the National Academy of Science's Institute of Medicine. Ludwig, the McCormick Foundation Professor of Social Service Administration, Law and Public Policy, and Director of the University of Chicago Crime Lab, is one of 70 new members and 10 foreign associates elected to the prestigious organization. He is the 14th member of the University of Chicago faculty to be elected to the group since 1978. The Institute of Medicine is both an honorific membership organization and a policy research organization. Membership in the Institute is considered "one of the highest honors in the fields of health and medicine and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding professional achievements and commitment to service," according to the IOM. The Institute's members serve without compensation in the conduct of studies and other activities on matters of significance to health. Current active members elect new members from among candidates nominated for their accomplishments and contributions to the advancement of the medical sciences, health care, and public health.