The College of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience celebrated outstanding achievements in research, education, and departmental commitment Friday, Dec. 5, as part of the inaugural IPN Faculty Excellence Awards.
The awards, envisioned by IPN’s Awards committee led by Jim Peters, were presented by IPN Chair Shane Hentges.
“These awards are particularly special because the nominations come directly from colleagues and students,” Hentges said. “They reflect the impact our faculty have on the people they work with every day, and each recipient has made contributions that extend far beyond their own accomplishments.”
Assistant professor Giuseppe Giannotti received the Research Award for his innovative and influential work investigating the neural circuits underlying opioid withdrawal and relapse.
Since joining WSU, Giannotti has converted his K99 grant into an R00 through the National Institutes of Health Pathway to Independence program, submitted an R01 now under review, and become a sought-after collaborator on seven grants with faculty across the university.
He recently published his first senior author paper in The Journal of Neuroscience.
“Through his creativity, productivity, and collaborative spirit, Dr. Giannotti consistently elevates the research profile of the IPN department,” Hentges said.
Recognized with the Educator Award, associate professor David Rossi was honored for his mentorship and dedication to student success at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. His nominators emphasized the supportive culture he has built in his lab — defined by compassion, mutual respect, curiosity, and camaraderie.
“Students described Dr. Rossi as incredibly compassionate in his leadership,” Hentges noted. “His passion for neurophysiology and research shines through in every aspect of his teaching and mentoring.”
The Glia Award, named after glia cells in the body known to protect the brain, was awarded to associate professor Travis Brown. Hence the name, the award celebrates faculty who cultivate an engaged, productive, and collegial departmental environment.
Dr. Brown has played a key role in fostering community and collaboration within IPN —establishing the department’s movie night, helping organize retreats, and uniting diverse perspectives as chair of the graduate program review committee.
“Dr. Brown uses his strengths to inspire, elevate morale, and help align IPN toward practical purpose and excellence,” Hentges said. “He demonstrates essential leadership with enthusiasm and intelligence.”
The award ceremony, set to become an annual event, is part of several broader initiatives underway in IPN, including a new tribute display honoring department retirees and a permanent showcase of faculty award recipients.
“These efforts help us recognize the people who built this department and those who continue to move it forward,” Hentges said. “Today’s honorees exemplify the excellence that defines IPN.”