International Society of Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology Honors Klaunig

The International Society of Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology recently honored Dr. James E. Klaunig, a professor with Indiana University's School of Public Health-Bloomington, with the International Achievement Award for 2020. The group presents the award annually to "an outstanding individual in recognition of their contributions and achievements in the resolution of public environmental concerns." The International Society of Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology also publishes the journal, Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology.

"I was pleasantly surprised [to receive] the International Achievement Award," Klaunig says. "The previous award winners have been leaders and trailblazers in the scientific disciplines of toxicology, pharmacology, and human risk assessment. I am honored to be included with this esteemed group of scientists."

He continues, "While this award honors me, it represents the collaborative efforts of a large group of students and colleagues with whom I have had the privilege to work during my past 40 years in academia."

Klaunig has long sought to better understand the causes of cancer—particularly the early stages of the cancer process and how environmental and pharmaceutical agents may contribute to cancer formation and progression. Via his recent research, he has investigated the influence of such lifestyle factors as exercise and high-fat diets on liver function and cancer development. He also studies the human health risks associated with hypolipidemic drugs, fluorocarbons, and other chemical agents.

In addition to the International Achievement Award, Klaunig received the Society of Toxicology's Education Award in 2020 and the Mid-Atlantic Society of Toxicology's Ambassador of Toxicology Award in 2019. Klaunig also holds fellowships in the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the Academy of Toxicological Sciences, and the International Academy of Toxicologic Pathologists.