Subhash Verma, Ph.D., professor of microbiology and immunology, and his research team at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med), has received the 2025 Excellence in Laboratory Safety Award. This honor recognizes his exceptional leadership in promoting a culture of safety in his research lab and across the University. 

Verma has established a lab where safety is a top priority, ensuring that all members follow rigorous Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) protocols and wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE). His research team works with a variety of Biological Safety Level 2 and 3 viral pathogens including virus that cause cancer and respiratory illnesses. His leadership extends to high-risk BSL-3 research, where his team maintains the highest compliance standards and regularly updates safety protocols in collaboration with safety committees.  

“Safety is fundamental to all scientific research, but it becomes absolutely critical when working with infectious agents,” said Verma. “Our ultimate goal is to advance human health, and that starts by protecting the health and well-being of the researchers conducting the work. Safety must always be the priority.”  

He added, “I firmly believe that laboratory safety is a shared responsibility. We are fortunate to work closely with dedicated Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) professionals including the UNR Med safety team who guide and support us in maintaining a safe and compliant research environment.”  

A key part of Verma’s impact is his collaborative approach. He has gone above and beyond by assisting other research teams, including stepping in to support a lab left vacant by a departing principal investigator. His mentorship ensures that research continues without interruption, reinforcing a culture of teamwork across the University.  

In addition to fostering safety in his own lab, Verma remains committed to keeping his team up to date with the latest safety training and protocols. His dedication ensures his research adapts quickly to public health needs and advances in scientific discovery.  

The Excellence in Laboratory Safety Award is given annually to recognize outstanding contributions to laboratory safety. Verma’s efforts set a high bar for safety practices, both at the University and beyond. 

About the award  

The Excellence in Laboratory Safety Award honors faculty-led research teams that demonstrate exceptional leadership in safety, innovation, and sustained commitment to creating a safe research environment. The award is part of the University of Nevada, Reno’s broader initiative to foster a culture of safety across the University. 

Research and Innovation is continually working on initiatives to recognize faculty and reward creativity, productivity and innovative research endeavors. The Excellence in Laboratory Safety Award is the latest to be added to the annually selected honors through the division of R&I, with the first award presented in 2021.

Eligible nominees include all research groups that are led by a University faculty member whose research involves laboratory work and use of any combination of chemicals, biological materials, lasers, radioactive materials or physical hazards. The winner is selected by a faculty-led Laboratory Safety Committee. Two additional research groups are selected as runners-up and receive a group certificate.