In Memoriam: John Nedrud, PhD
I write today to share the sad news of the passing of John Gilbert Nedrud, PhD, professor emeritus in the Department of Pathology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. John passed away on June 10, 2026, at the age of 77.
John earned his BS in chemistry from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, his PhD in molecular biology and immunology from the University of California, Los Angeles, and completed his postdoctoral fellowship in microbial pathogenesis at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He joined Case Western Reserve in 1983 as an assistant professor of pathology and retired in February 2014, after more than 30 years of dedicated service.
John established an international reputation in mucosal immunology, with research focused on immunity to Helicobacter pylori, cholera toxin adjuvant mechanisms and viral immunity. He was a cornerstone of immunology teaching in our department, serving as course director for PATH 416 Fundamental Immunology for over two decades, directing a course in immunity to infection for many years and teaching in numerous other areas of the curriculum. John was also a devoted mentor and a valued member of our academic community, influencing countless students and colleagues with his scholarship, integrity and generosity.
Beyond his scientific achievements, John was known for his independence, resourcefulness and warmth. He combined a brilliant scientific mind with a love of family, bike riding, photography, travel and woodworking. His legacy endures through his scholarship and through the many individuals whose scientific thinking and careers he shaped.
Please join me in extending our deepest condolences to John’s family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. A memorial gathering will be planned at a later date.
Sincerely,
Stan Gerson, MD
Dean and Senior Vice President for Medical Affairs, CWRU School of Medicine
Director, National Center for Regenerative Medicine
