John Hasenau has joined the University of Nevada, Reno as director of laboratory animal medicine. This role is responsible for the oversight of animal care, welfare and facilities at the University. Hasenau is also the attending veterinarian for the Nevada System of Higher Education and provides services to several of Nevada’s public, higher education institutions.

“Dr. Hasenau was selected for the position because he has had extensive background in federally funded animal facilities and is intimately familiar with the laws, regulations and guidelines that govern the ethical treatment of animals,” Marsha Read, interim vice president of research, said. “But most important, he operates as a team member to help University of Nevada researchers achieve their goals and remain in full compliance with these laws, regulations and guidelines.”

Hasenau has more than 40 years of experience working with animals. He has inspected facilities with the United States Department of Agriculture and the Federal Department of Agriculture. Hasenau began his veterinary career in a private animal practice working predominately with horses and cattle. He has directed safety programs and animal rights awareness programs at major companies and other universities.

“As the director of laboratory animal medicine I look forward to enhancing the research programs by facilitating researchers’ needs and partnering with them in continuous development of ethically based, quality programs,” Hasenau said. “Recent infrastructure development through the Center for Molecular Medicine has allowed newer approaches of animal quality care and biosecurity that were not able to occur at this institution historically. This major, new development will translate into leading edge science and data results; truly an exciting and wonderful opportunity for everyone in the laboratory animal community.”

Hasenau has many professional affiliations including the American Association of laboratory Animal Science, Nevada Veterinary Medical Association, American Committee on Laboratory Animal Diseases and American Association for the Advancement of Science. He earned his bachelor’s degree in natural sciences and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Michigan State University.