PVM Cancer Research Scholar Honored at Purdue Institute for Cancer Research Recognition Awards Ceremony

Two people standing next to each other between a banner that says "Partnership that powers discovery" and "From start to finishing cancer". One of the people is holding a plaque award — Dr. Deborah Knapp receives the PICR Career Research Achievement Award from Andrew Mesecar, director of the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, at the Institute’s 2026 awards ceremony April 3.

Dr. Deborah Knapp, Distinguished Professor of Comparative Oncology, Dolores L. McCall Professor of Comparative Oncology, and director of the Evan and Sue Ann Werling Comparative Oncology Research Center, was recognized this month at the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research 2026 Recognition Awards ceremony. The program April 3 honored faculty, trainees and staff advancing cancer research across the institute.

Dr. Knapp received the Career Research Achievement Award, which recognizes strong scientific and scholarly contributions as a result of work completed in the recipient’s role as a PICR member. In particular, the Award honors those who have demonstrated a sustained and significant impact on their field and national and international recognition for their work.

Debbie Knapp was recognized for her career that has helped define the field of comparative oncology and elevate Purdue’s leadership in cancer research and veterinary medicine. In addition to her roles as a distinguished faculty member in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences and Werling Center director, Dr. Knapp is the associate director of clinical comparative oncology at the PICR.

Dr. Knapp’s research focuses on naturally occurring cancers in dogs as models of human disease, and generates insights that benefit both animal and human patients. Over more than three decades, she has led clinical trials, contributed to national data resources and expanded Purdue’s comparative oncology capabilities, including playing an integral role in the establishment of the Werling Center. Her sustained scientific leadership and impact exemplify the highest level of achievement that is recognized by the Career Research Achievement Award.

Congratulations Dr. Knapp!

Writer(s): PVM News | pvmnews@purdue.edu

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