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Siddappa Byrareddy, PhD, Singer Professor of Microbial Pathogenesis and vice chair for research in the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, has been named UNMC’s 20th Scientist Laureate.
The award is the highest honor that UNMC bestows upon its researchers.
Dr. Byrareddy, who joined UNMC in 2016, leads the Byrareddy Laboratory at UNMC, which holds as its mission “to combat some of the most formidable microbes in human history.” He specializes in research into HIV pathobiology and cure strategies, COVID-19 and other emerging viral threats including Zika and Mpox.
“Dr. Byrareddy is one of the most prolific investigators we have on campus,” said Ken Bayles, PhD, vice chancellor for research at UNMC. “His ability to identify a problem, conduct a study and write it up for publication is second to none. This was especially apparent during the pandemic, when he authored multiple highly cited papers and review articles on SARS-CoV-2.”
“The best in science is measured by traits; the most obvious to all are drive, intelligence, creativity, risk-taking and dedication,” said Howard Gendelman, MD, chair of the UNMC Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience. “But it is often overlooked personal qualities that better define success. These are the qualities that define Dr. Byrareddy. These are perseverance, resilience and dogged drive, embodied in the face of failure. He turns those failures to success.”
Dr. Byrareddy said it is a privilege to be recognized as the Scientist Laureate at UNMC.
The recognition, he said, is a testament to the dedication and excellence of his current and former research teams, his collaborators and the supportive environment provided by UNMC. It shows the commitment to rigorous, hypothesis-driven research that spans viral pathogenesis, immune-based therapies, antiviral development and translational science.
It also reflects an ongoing commitment to scientific discovery and real-world impact, he said.
“I view this honor as both recognition and responsibility to continue pursuing innovative interventions that improve health outcomes and reduce the global burden of disease,” Dr. Byrareddy said.
Dr. Byrareddy will be honored along with 17 other researchers named UNMC Distinguished Scientist, New Investigator and Research Leadership Award winners for 2025. A ceremony will be held on Thursday, Nov. 6, at 4 p.m. in the Durham Research Center auditorium. A reception and poster session will follow in the Durham Research Center commons area.
