by Mathew Bogdanffy, 2015–2016 Chair, SOT Endowment Fund Board
Dr. Donald Gardner was a distinguished pioneer in the field of Inhalation Toxicology. His research contributed to a better understanding of the health effects of air pollutants, thereby promoting the health of workers and the public. His mentorship of numerous individuals played a key role in their development as contributing scientists. Following the passing of Dr. Gardner, a number of distinguished inhalation toxicologists, colleagues, friends, and family banded together to establish an endowment fund in his name.
The goal of the Donald E. Gardner Inhalation Toxicology Education Award Fund is to encourage education and training that will promote innovation in the field of inhalation toxicology. Proceeds from the fund will be used to provide stipends to early career scientists to gain specialized training in novel inhalation toxicology methodologies, including respiratory tract dosimetry and mechanisms of action of inhaled materials. Awards also may be given for the development of educational webinars on innovative methods in the fields of Inhalation and Respiratory Toxicology.
“Don was a dear friend and colleague so it was a pleasure to help establish this fund,” said Dr. Judith Graham, past president of the Inhalation and Respiratory Specialty Section. Talented students are being encouraged to facilitate their training through this award. Adds Dr. Fredrick Miller, another past president and retired head of the inhalation toxicology unit at the Hamner Institute, “Don was a great teacher and had a passion for inhalation toxicology that led to so many important contributions to our field.”
Gardner Award recipients will be selected by the SOT Inhalation and Respiratory Specialty Section. Eligible candidates can visit the Inhalation and Respiratory Specialty Section website for application information.