MORGANTOWN — Gov. Jim Justice recently honored two West Virginia University astrophysicists as Distinguished Mountaineers for their globally recognized contributions to science.

Dr. Maura McLaughlin and Dr. Duncan Lorimer were celebrated for their recent accolades from internationally respected organizations, elevating the prestige of both West Virginia and WVU.

“I’m proud to be here to celebrate two very bright and inspiring professors,” Gov. Justice remarked. “The strides made by Dr. McLaughlin and Dr. Lorimer in the science community are truly remarkable. In particular, their contributions at our state’s flagship institution representing the State of West Virginia on the international stage make these achievements even more special.”

Dr. McLaughlin has been elected to the prestigious National Academy of Sciences for her groundbreaking research on gravitational waves. She stands as the first WVU researcher to join this esteemed group.

Her team recently announced the discovery of gravitational waves with periods ranging from years to decades, using the Green Bank Telescope in Pocahontas County as the primary instrument.

Dr. Lorimer was named a 2024 Fellow of the Royal Society of London, a highly prestigious recognition in the scientific community. He is one of only 90 researchers chosen this year, honored for his work in pulsar astrophysics and the discovery of fast radio bursts.

Founded in 1660, the Royal Society is the oldest continuously operating scientific organization, dedicated to advancing science for the good of humanity.

“You have both already won several awards because of your success, and I proudly present another,” Gov. Justice added. “Your hard work and dedication have built one of the world’s leading astrophysics research programs and continue to strengthen WVU’s reputation as one of America’s foremost research institutions. Thank you all for making the entire state proud.”

The Distinguished Mountaineer is the highest honor the Governor can bestow on a non-native West Virginian.