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The Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) congratulates Debra L. Laskin, PhD, on being named to the Forbes 2026 50 Over 50: Innovation list. The annual list recognizes women whose experience, leadership, and accomplishments continue to advance their fields.

Dr. Laskin was recognized for more than four decades of research into the immune system’s response to toxic chemicals and the inflammatory mechanisms behind lung and liver injury. Her work has contributed to medical countermeasures for chemical threats, including mustard agents. She has published more than 350 journal articles, reviews, book chapters, and reports, and has mentored scores of emerging scientists.

Dr. Laskin is Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at Rutgers University Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, where she holds the Roy A. Bowers Endowed Chair of Pharmacy. As a member of the independent Expert Panel for Fragrance Safety, she brings expertise in inflammatory mechanisms, pulmonary and hepatic toxicology, immunotoxicology, and disease pathogenesis to the Panel’s evaluation of fragrance safety science.

“Debra brings the same rigor, independence, and intellectual curiosity to the Expert Panel that have defined her extraordinary career,” said Donald V. Belsito, MD, Chair of the Expert Panel. “Her research has deepened our understanding of how toxicants affect human health, while her dedication to mentoring has strengthened the field for generations. This recognition could not be more deserved.”

Read the press release and see the Forbes 2026 50 Over 50: Innovation list.