Jack Harkema, DVM, PhD, DACVP, ATSF, a University Distinguished Professor and researcher at the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, has been selected for the Roger O. McClellan Lifetime Achievement Award. Presented by the Comparative Toxicology, Pathology, and Veterinary Specialty Section (CTPVSS) of the Society of Toxicology, the award recognizes individuals who have made significant, career-long contributions to these specialized fields.

Harkema was officially named the recipient of the honor during a virtual CTPVSS meeting on February 18, 2026. He will be formally presented with the award in person on March 25 during the Society of Toxicology Annual Meeting in San Diego.

A world-renowned expert in lung research, Harkema has focused much of his career on the respiratory health impacts of air pollution and environmental factors. His work has provided critical data used to inform public health and safety standards globally. At Michigan State, he heads to the Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology and the Mobile Air Research Laboratory. He also occupies the Albert E. and Lois C. Dehn Endowed Chair in Veterinary Medicine.

“Jack Harkema has a unique mix of child-like enthusiasm and wonder with the wisdom of many decades of amazing science,” says Dr. Dalen Agnew, chairperson of the Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation for the College.

That enthusiasm remains central to Harkema’s recent work, including collaborations with leaders in the field to drive discoveries in COVID-19 respiratory research. Even with a lifetime of achievement to his credit, colleagues note that his focus remains on the success of his peers and the future of the field.

“There is a permanence to his enthusiasm, curiosity, and passion. His energy for discovery is unrivaled,” says Dr. James Luyendyk, associate dean for Research and Graduate Studies for the College. “There is no one else on the planet as excited about mucus, ozone, and a microscope. When asked what he is excited about for the coming year, his first thought is how he can help others cross the finish line on research impact.”

“All of us in this group, across generations and roles, have benefited from Dr. Harkema’s guidance, generosity, and scientific contributions,” says Dr. Yogosh Saini, a pulmonary and toxicology research colleague of Harkema’s who a professor at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine is. “This award honors a lifetime of achievement, but it also reflects the values Dr. Harkema has consistently modeled: intellectual rigor, integrity, and a genuine investment in people.”

Beyond his primary research, Harkema is recognized for his leadership within the College and his dedication to mentoring the next generation of veterinary researchers. This latest honor from the Society of Toxicology joins a long history of contributions to the MSU community and the broader field of toxicology.