Since 2005, Jad Abumrad has been the producer and co-host of nationally syndicated Radiolab, based at the WNYC studios. Today, Abumrad has been selected by the prestigious MacArthur Foundation as a 2011 MacArthur Fellow. Monetarily, Abumrad gets $500,000 for his intellect.

Abumrad put his grey matter to good use—c0-creating Radiolab, which through audio explorations, Abumrad is able to examine scientific and philosophical dilemmas, enriching listeners with the experience.

Abumrad takes his background as a composer to orchestrate dialogue, music, and sound effects into compelling documentaries that draw listeners into investigations of otherwise intimidating topics.

The 22 winners received a surprise phone call from the Foundation, saying  the cash prize has no-strings attached over the next five years. MacArthur Fellowships come without stipulations or reporting requirements and offer Fellows unprecedented freedom and opportunity to reflect, create, and explore.

Abumrad received a B.A. from Oberlin College in 1995.