Dr. Lisa Tell is this year’s winner for the School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Lisa Tell’s laboratory focuses on two areas of research: human food safety relative to drug use in livestock species through the Food Animal Residue Avoidance and Depletion Program (FARAD), and the health of hummingbirds through the Hummingbird Health and Conservation Program (HHCP).
The FARAD program studies methods to estimate withdrawal intervals for meat, milk, eggs, and honey to help veterinarians and livestock producers. HHCP studies disease threats to hummingbirds, such as viral infections, pesticides, and heavy metal exposure, and conducts population monitoring in California. The Tell Laboratory has even authored a children’s book, “If Hummingbirds Could Hum” to educate children and their parents about the importance of avian pollinators.
Safety is a core value in Dr. Tell’s laboratory, championed by laboratory manager Scott Wetzlich. From day one, new members undergo extensive safety training and annual refreshers. The laboratory promotes a collaborative safety space, welcoming input from UC Davis’s Laboratory Safety Program to ensure compliance with campus, state, and federal regulations.
The laboratory also emphasizes the importance of working in pairs during animal fieldwork and avoids working outside of regular business hours whenever possible to reduce risks. Their motto, “prevention is the best medicine,” and a no-judgment policy allows staff to report any safety concerns without fear of repercussions.
In addition to their scientific work, Dr. Tell’s laboratory is also home to "Cori the Rocket Dog," an animal ambassador for UC Davis. Cori retrieves the kickoff tee for UC Davis football games and bats for the baseball team, and in alignment with the Tell Laboratory’s safety practices, dons ear protection when on-field.
Looking ahead, Dr. Tell’s Laboratory plans to celebrate Wetzlich's retirement in 2025 after a 40-year career working at UC Davis. “Scott has been the ‘glue’ for our laboratory since 2006 and is the reason that we received this award,” said Dr. Tell. “We wish him a long and happy retirement.”
The laboratory is also working to continue expanding FARAD's assistance to developing countries that are attempting to enter the export market, as well as strengthening partnerships to study avian pollinators’ response to climate change.