New York Academy of Sciences

Yann LeCun, VP and Chief AI Scientist at Meta, was one of three Honorees recently recognized by The New York Academy of Sciences (the Academy) for outstanding contributions to science.

Yann LeCun was recently recognized by The New York Academy of Sciences, for his pioneering work in machine learning, computer vision, mobile robotics, and computational neuroscience. He was presented with the Academy’s inaugural Trailblazer Award during the 2025 Spring Soirée, hosted at the University Club of New York.

“His work has been instrumental in setting the terms of how we think about the uses, implications, and impact of AI in all its forms,” said Nick Dirks, President and CEO of the Academy, while introducing LeCun during the Soirée. “Yann, we’re grateful that your view has carried the day and are inspired by the boldness of your vision. A vision that has shaped the evolution of this amazing and transformative technology.”

LeCun, a Turing Laureate, who also serves as the Jacob T. Schwartz Professor of Computer Science for the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New York University, has been called everything from a “pioneer” to a “godfather” within the field of AI. His connection with the Academy dates back several years when he and Manuela Veloso, Head of AI Research at J.P. Morgan, “agreed to serve as honorary chairs for the launch of a new initiative on applications of AI to critical sectors of the New York City economy.”