UAF scientist lauded for research accomplishments

Submitted by Mary Van Muelken
Phone: (907) 474-7029
06/01/06

Fairbanks, Alaska--University of Alaska Fairbanks researcher Kelly Drew is the recipient of the first-ever Sven Ebbesson Award for Excellence in Neuroscience.

Joan Braddock, dean of the UAF College of Natural Science and Mathematics, presented the award during a Wednesday evening awards ceremony at the sixth-annual National Conference of Specialized Neuroscience Research Programs at the Wedgewood Resort is Fairbanks.

Drew has been a member of UAF’s faculty since 1993. Her research focuses on three aspects of hibernation as a model of neuroprotection and aims to discover novel therapies to treat stroke and neurodegenerative disorders.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UAF and a doctorate in pharmacology from Albany Medical College. Drew is also a certified teacher and was the 2006 recipient of the Emil Usibelli Distinguished Teaching Award, one of UAF’s most prestigious awards.

The College of Natural Science and Mathematics established the award to honor Alaska researchers who make outstanding contributions to the field of neuroscience. The college plans to give the award annually.

The award is named for UAF Professor Emeritus Sven Ebbesson, a pioneer of neuroscience and health research in Alaska. His research, which spans more than two decades in the state, is internationally recognized. In addition, his work at the university has served to increase collaboration between scientists at UAF and UAA.

CONTACT: Mary Van Muelken, coordinator, at (907) 474-7029 or e-mail fyabnp@uaf.edu. Carla Browning, media relations manager, at (907) 474-7778 or carla.browning@uaf.edu.