A Rutgers scientist whose research is opening up new possibilities for treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) has received the 2025 Grossman Innovation Prize from the School of Arts and Sciences. The prize, which provides financial support to faculty members pursuing research with commercial potential, will help fund the work of Michael Verzi, a professor in the Department of Genetics. The Verzi lab is developing genetic studies that could shift IBD treatment in a new direction by targeting the inner intestinal lining rather than the immune system.
“IBD is a severe and prevalent disease that affects millions of people,” says Verzi, who holds the Duncan and Nancy MacMillan Endowed Chair in Cancer Genomics. “And I think that for those who don’t stay in remission or don’t respond to therapy, it might be because we don’t have the right treatment to heal their specific underlying cause of IBD.” The Grossman Prize, which is made possible through a gift from Rutgers alumnus Alan Grossman, allows researchers to advance their work to the proof-of-concept stage when they would be eligible for private investment funding as well as spin-off as an independent business.
“We’re thrilled that this year’s Grossman Innovation Prize will support research that could bring relief to millions suffering from a difficult and painful disease,” says SAS Executive Vice Dean James Masschaele. “We’re grateful for the research of Professor Michael Verzi and for the vision and generosity of alumni Alan Grossman.” To read the full story.