What you need to know:
- Her work at BioNTech SE and her continuous efforts in developing in vitro-transcribed mRNA for protein therapy have revolutionized our understanding of mRNA’s interaction with the immune system, a breakthrough that earned her the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2023.
- Professor Weissman, the Roberts Family Professor in Vaccine Research and Director of the Penn Institute for RNA Innovation at the University of Pennsylvania, is a distinguished scientist in immunology.
Recognizing Leadership in Global Health
The World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, honored Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados and two pioneering scientists, Professors Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman, with the Director-General’s Award for Global Health. This prestigious accolade was presented during the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly to acknowledge their significant contributions to global health advancement.
Prime Minister Mia Mottley: A Beacon of Climate Action and Health
Her Excellency Mia Mottley received the award for her exemplary leadership in climate action and health advocacy. As the Chair of the Global Leaders Group on Antimicrobial Resistance, her efforts have been instrumental in promoting sustainable policies and addressing the climate crisis, which WHO recognizes as the greatest health threat to humanity. “Prime Minister Mottley’s dedication to creating a more equitable, just, and sustainable world is truly inspiring,” stated Dr. Tedros.
Prime Minister Mottley, the eighth Prime Minister of Barbados and the first woman to hold this office, has been a formidable force in her country’s political landscape since 2018. Re-elected in 2022 with an unprecedented victory, she also serves as the Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and Investment. Her international roles and accolades underscore her influence and commitment to global health and sustainability.
Pioneers of mRNA Technology: Professors Karikó and Weissman
Professors Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman were recognized for their groundbreaking work in the development of mRNA vaccines, a critical tool in combating COVID-19. Their research has not only alleviated the pandemic’s burden but also paved the way for future advancements in vaccine technology. “Their pioneering contributions have the potential to significantly improve global health,” remarked Dr. Tedros.
Professor Katalin Karikó: Revolutionizing RNA Research
Professor Karikó, a professor at the University of Szeged and adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania, has dedicated four decades to RNA-mediated research. Her work at BioNTech SE and her continuous efforts in developing in vitro-transcribed mRNA for protein therapy have revolutionized our understanding of mRNA’s interaction with the immune system, a breakthrough that earned her the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2023.
Professor Drew Weissman: Innovator in Vaccine Research
Professor Weissman, the Roberts Family Professor in Vaccine Research and Director of the Penn Institute for RNA Innovation at the University of Pennsylvania, is a distinguished scientist in immunology. His collaborative discovery with Professor Karikó of a novel nucleoside-modified mRNA platform has been pivotal in advancing vaccine technology. This innovative platform circumvents adverse immunologic responses, a significant leap forward in vaccine development.
Honoring Excellence in Global Health
The WHO Director-General’s Award for Global Health highlights the exceptional contributions of individuals and teams in the fight for better health outcomes worldwide. Prime Minister Mottley’s leadership in climate and health, alongside Professors Karikó and Weissman’s transformative work in mRNA vaccine technology, exemplifies the profound impact of dedicated efforts in shaping a healthier future for all.
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