A University professor received one of the highest honors in medicine Wednesday when the National Academy of Sciences named him to its Institute of Medicine.

Regents Professor Ashley Haase, head of the microbiology department and director of the Biomedical Genomics Center, said he is pleased to become part of the group.

“I am delighted, needless to say,” Haase said.

Haase said he looks forward to bringing his understanding of global AIDS and HIV infection to the institute.

“I hope to be able to contribute my expertise and counsel to (Institute of Medicine) activities directed toward responding to this terrible pandemic,” he said.

Haase is one of 65 new members elected to the selective group of more than 1,300 medical specialists who study a range of health policy issues.