John Parrish, a veterinarian at Clemson University, has been recognised for his lifetime dedication to ethical research with the Jeff Cohen PRIM&R Service Award.
An international nonprofit organisation called PRIM&R (Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research) works to uphold morality and ethics in studies involving both humans and animals. Individuals who have made noteworthy, long-lasting contributions to the PRIM&R community in areas such as teaching, mentoring, innovation, leadership, engagement, programme improvement, and research are recognised with the organization’s Service Award. The award is named in honour of Jeff Cohen, a lifelong university professor and administrator who was also involved with the Office for Human Research Protections at the National Institutes of Health. Prior to his passing in 2021, Cohen was a vocal supporter of PRIM&R and is regarded as a pillar in the research ethics community.
Parrish stated, “I never met Jeff Cohen, but I’ve spoken to people who did, and I’ve read about him and realised how highly regarded he was as a boss, friend, mentor, family man, and leader in the compliance community.” “I am honoured to be the recipient of this prize, which PRIMR established in memory of Dr. Cohen. I appreciate you providing me the chance to contribute to his legacy.
In addition to providing top-notch veterinary care programmes, professional and technical support, education and training, and state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for animal research and educational activities, Parrish is the director of the Godley-Snell Research Centre and the Office of Animal Resources. With over thirty years of experience, Parrish has supported medical research and teaching in areas such as infectious illness, toxicology, vaccines, trauma, and vascular disease that are crucial to the military, contract research, and academia. Prior to coming to Clemson in 2006, he oversaw animal care and use programmes at the National Institutes of Health and two contract research organisations following a distinguished 20-year career in the U.S. Army.
