Michigan State University has appointed Richard R. Neubig as professor and chairperson of the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, a department affiliated with the colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, Human Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. Neubig will begin his work at MSU July 1.
Neubig has been a faculty member at the University of Michigan since 1983, where he has served as professor of pharmacology, associate professor of internal medicine, and director of the Center for the Discovery of New Medicines. He is also 2012-13 president-elect of the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, a 5,000-member professional organization.
His research deals with G proteins and their receptors – important as targets for nearly half the drugs on the market – and is showing that the current models oversimplify highly complex processes in the body. By exploiting these mechanisms, his group has identified new drug candidates that may have utility in cancer, fibrosis, and mental depression.
“Dr. Neubig brings to MSU stellar credentials in pharmacological research,” noted William D. Strampel, dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine. “His array of grants, nearly 150 peer-reviewed papers, participation on scientific review and editorial boards, publication of a book and chapters in books, consulting work and invited lectures are impressive. In addition, he has demonstrated a significant commitment to education and shows high respect from his peers.”
"Dr. Neubig's experience in academic drug discovery offers exciting new opportunities in several disciplines across the university," added Marsha D. Rappley, dean of the College of Human Medicine.
Neubig received his B.S. in chemistry from the University of Michigan, M.D. from Harvard Medical School, and Ph.D. in pharmacology from Harvard University. He took his residency in internal medicine at University Hospital in Ann Arbor.