Dr. Scott Coonrod appointed as Director of the Baker Institute for Animal Health

On Dec. 5, 2019, Dr. Scott Coonrod began his new role as Director of the Baker Institute for Animal Health, a position he has held as interim since March 2019.

“His diverse background and strong leadership skills put him in an excellent position to serve as director,” said Dr. Lorin D. Warnick, Austin O. Hooey Dean of Veterinary Medicine. “I appreciate his willingness to accept this important role and I know he will ensure the Baker Institute continues their outstanding contributions to veterinary and biomedical research.”

Coonrod received his Ph.D. in veterinary physiology from Texas A&M in 1995 and did his postdoctoral work in cell biology at the University of Virginia. He joined Cornell as assistant professor at Weill Cornell Medicine in 2003 and became part of the Baker Institute for Animal Health community in 2007 as associate professor of epigenetics and reproductive biology.

As the Judy Wilpon Professor of Cancer Biology, Coonrod’s research focuses on understanding the causes of uncontrolled growth in cancer cells that claim millions of animal and human lives every year. His laboratory currently works to find new diagnostics and therapies for human breast cancer and canine hemangiosarcoma. 

“I strongly believe in the Baker Institute’s mission to improve animal health through scientific discovery,” said Coonrod. “I am excited for this new opportunity and am looking forward to advancing the Institute's mission with such a great group of faculty, trainees and staff.”