In Memoriam: James L. Bittle, DVM
March 7, 1927 – August 24, 2020
Jim was a businessman, veterinarian and microbiologist with a sense of adventure. A graduate of the first School of Veterinary Medicine classes of UC Davis he received the first-ever Alumni Achievement award in 1989. Director of Research, and a Division President of Johnson and Johnson, acclaimed in the field for his outstanding personal and professional contributions to veterinary sciences (like the first ever vaccine to cure the common cold in cats) he could converse with his smile on virtually any subject.
Dr. Bittle was a member of the American Society for Virology, the Society of Experimental Medicine and Biology, the American Association of Industrial Veterinarians, and the United States Animal Health Association. He was also a member of the Council of Biologic and Therapeutic Agents, AVMA, a board-certified diplomat for the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists and a proud member and officer of American Legion Post La Jolla 275. Dr. Bittle culminated his 35-year research career in La Jolla, CA., where he and Richard Lerner coordinated the founding and development of the Scripps Research Institute.