UTMB faculty honored with top tropical medicine awards

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) is demonstrating its global leadership in infectious disease research as three of its faculty members received top honors at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, one of the world's most influential scientific gatherings dedicated to reducing the burden of tropical infectious diseases. The awards recognize exceptional leadership, scientific achievement, and service in fields critical to improving health outcomes across the globe.

• Dr. David Walker, professor of pathology and a global expert in rickettsial diseases, received the Walter Reed Medal, awarded by ASTMH. First presented in 1936, the medal recognizes distinguished service in the field of tropical medicine and contributions that have transformed scientific understanding or public health impact. Walker's work has advanced global knowledge of tickborne infections like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and improved diagnostic and treatment approaches
• Dr. Scott Weaver, professor of microbiology and immunology, was named the recipient of the Richard M. Taylor Award. The award honors exceptional scientific contributions to the field of arbovirology over the course of a career. Weaver's research on mosquito-borne viruses, including Zika, chikungunya and Venezuelan equine encephalitis, has shaped prevention strategies and propelled vaccine development efforts worldwide.
• Dr. Susan McLellan, professor of internal medicine, received the Martin Wolfe Mentorship Award, which recognizes outstanding commitment to mentoring and cultivating the next generation of physicians and scientists. McLellan has dedicated much of her career to training clinicians and research professionals in emerging infectious diseases and outbreak response.

ASTMH, founded in 1903, brings together scientists, clinicians, and global health professionals from more than 100 countries. Its annual awards highlight individuals whose work strengthens the global response to infectious diseases, advances research, and improves health equity in vulnerable regions.

"These remarkable recognitions underscore UTMB's legacy of leadership in global infectious diseases," Dr. Peter Melby, Director of Center for Tropical Diseases, said. "Each of these distinguished faculty members has made lasting contributions that extend far beyond our campuses and into communities around the world."