James Gunn, director of the Center for the Study of Science Fiction at Kansas University, has been named grand master of science fiction for the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America Inc.

Gunn, professor emeritus of English, is the author of 28 science fiction books and the editor of 12 books. His science fiction stories have been dramatized for national radio and television programs.

The title Damon Knight Memorial Grand Master is bestowed upon a living author for lifetime achievement in science fiction and/or fantasy. The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America president nominates candidates who must be approved by a majority of the group’s officers and participating past presidents.

The title will be conferred during the group’s meeting and awards banquet, which will be in May in New York City.