The SAMRC Scientific Merit Awards celebrate 10 years of recognising excellence in health research
Cape Town, South Africa | The nominations for the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) 2023 Scientific Merit Awards are open. Celebrating a 10-year anniversary, these awards are aimed at acknowledging outstanding contributions to health research.
Eligible candidates are pioneering researchers who have significantly advanced the realm of science and health research through their published work, with a focus on benefiting the lives of South Africans.
Platinum medals, symbolising the Lifetime Achievement Award, are bestowed upon scientists who have exhibited a lifelong dedication to the field of health, leaving an indelible mark. Respected individuals such as the late Professor Bongani Mayosi, along with Professors Valerie Mizrahi, Salim Abdool Karim, and others, have previously been honoured with the Platinum Award accolade.
Gold medals are reserved for accomplished senior scientists who have made seminal contributions that have had a profound impact on the health of people, particularly those residing in developing nations. Last year, this award went to Professors Bavesh Kana, Elmi Muller, Sharon Prince and Ameena Goga.
Silver medals are dedicated to scientists who have played pivotal roles in scientific progress within the country, with an emphasis on fostering capacity development. Notable awardees in 2022 were Professors Theresa Rossouw and Samantha Sampson and Drs Tarylee Reddy and Muki Shey.
The Bronze medals are awarded to scientists who have recently entered the health research field, with not less than five years post PhD experience. While this award is not tied to chronological age, researchers should preferably be under the age of 50 years. Last year’s recipients were Professors Lebo Gafane-Matemane, Tivani Mashamba-Thompson, Lusilda Schutte and Drs Terusha Chetty, Wynand Goosen and Wanga Zembe-Mkabile.
President's awards are conferred upon scientists who have exhibited an exceptional, lifelong commitment to health research, and is granted at the discretion of the presiding SAMRC President and CEO. In 2022 the sought-after President’s Award was bestowed on Professors Valerie Corfield and Johan Louw.
Prof Corfield is a retiree who continues to serve in advancing research outputs and the research careers of academics in molecular and cell biology, health sciences and other disciplines, while Prof Louw is a biomedical scientist who serves as the Senior Platform Director at the Centre and Platforms Office at the SAMRC. His expertise and focal research areas are in the area of pathophysiology of metabolic disease, diabetes prevention, early diagnosis and treatment.
Prof. Glenda Gray, the SAMRC President and CEO underscores that these awards honour research characterised by innovative methodologies and novel approaches in addressing public health issues, with the potential to influence policy and ultimately enhance the quality of life for South Africans.
"As we celebrate a decade of the SAMRC Scientific Merits Awards, these awards stand as a testament to the power of dedication, innovation and collaboration in advancing scientific discovery. Our honorees have illuminated the path towards healthier futures for all, embodying the spirit of excellence that drives us forward. With each passing year, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture of scientific excellence and shaping a world where knowledge knows no bounds," says Gray.
Information and instructions about the nominations can be found on the SAMRC website – https://www.samrc.ac.za/about-us/samrc-scientific-merit-awards
For more enquiries:
- Mr Tendani Tsedu
Head of Corporate & Marketing Communications
E-mail: Tendani.Tsedu@mrc.ac.za
Mobile: +27 82 945 1980