FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Protein Society, a leading authority in the realm of protein research, recently announced the prestigious winners of the 2025 Protein Society Awards. This recognition is a highlight of the society’s commitment to advancing the field of protein science and will take place during the 39th Annual Symposium scheduled from June 26 to June 29, 2025, in San Francisco. The event promises to be a scholarly gathering featuring plenary talks from award winners who have made groundbreaking contributions to protein science. Their scientific achievements, detailed by their nominators, reflect a profound impact on various aspects of protein research and its implications in biological systems.
One of the most esteemed accolades this year, the Christian B. Anfinsen Award, is dedicated to recognizing exceptional technological advancements and methodological innovations in protein science. The recipient, Professor Jan Steyaert from Vrije Universiteit Brussel and the VIB, stands at the forefront of nanobody technology. His work in applying nanobodies as scaffolds has facilitated the exploration of the structures and functional mechanisms of vital proteins such as G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). This kind of research exemplifies how innovative techniques can enhance our understanding of protein behaviors and interactions, ultimately leading to potential therapeutic applications.
Similarly, the Carl Brändén Award is designed to honor contributions that go beyond individual research, encapsulating educational and service-oriented endeavors within the scientific community. Professor James Fraser from the University of California, San Francisco, is this year’s distinguished recipient. His pioneering work in developing room temperature X-ray data collection techniques has revolutionized the study of proteins. By employing ensemble modeling methods, Dr. Fraser has not only enhanced our ability to study proteins more effectively but has also made substantial strides in educational initiatives that promote collaborative learning within the scientific community.
Continuing the theme of contributions that transcend basic research, the Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Award acknowledges those who have significantly influenced biological sciences through protein science. Professor Andy LiWang from the University of California, Merced, is the proud recipient. His meticulous investigations into the mechanisms of circadian rhythms have deepened our understanding of biological timekeeping systems. By elucidating how proteins and cells can sense and respond to time, Dr. LiWang has laid groundwork that could lead to innovations in chronobiology and its applications in medicine.
Another noteworthy recognition is the Marie Maynard Daly Award, which underscores groundbreaking research that bridges protein science and human health. This year, Professor Yuh Min Chook from UT Southwestern Medical Center received this honor for her impactful work in studying nucleo-cytoplasmic transport mechanisms. Her research has significant implications for understanding cellular function and has led to the identification of critical processes that facilitated the FDA’s approval of a novel cancer drug. This intersection of fundamental science and practical health solutions is a prime example of how protein research can lead to tangible advancements in medical therapies.
The Emil Thomas Kaiser Award, driven by individual contributions to cancer research and protein chemistry, was awarded to Dr. Brian Kuhlman from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His groundbreaking work in protein structural modeling and de novo protein design has furthered our capacity to understand protein-protein interactions and engineering. By integrating methods like deep learning, Dr. Kuhlman’s contributions represent a significant leap in predicting protein stability and energetics, providing crucial insights into protein functionality.
In a similar vein, the Hans Neurath Award shines a spotlight on recent contributions of exceptional merit to basic protein research. Professor Antonina Roll Mecak from NIH – NINDS has made significant headway in understanding the dynamic properties of microtubules, which are essential components supporting cellular structure and function. Through her explorations of the tubulin code and her discoveries concerning microtubule nanodamage and repair mechanisms, Roll Mecak’s work has implications spanning from basic biology to therapeutic development.
The Stein & Moore Award acknowledges sustained high-impact research contributions in protein science. Professor Timothy Springer from Harvard Medical School is this year’s recipient, widely revered for his foundational discoveries regarding T-cell responses and immunological pathways. His groundbreaking research has led not only to a better understanding of cell recognition processes but has also paved the way for innovative therapeutics targeting immune responses, thus influencing treatments for various conditions, including psoriasis and ulcerative colitis.
The Protein Science Young Investigator Award, which recognizes emerging talent in protein research, saw two exemplary scientists honored this year: Professor Christopher Barnes from Stanford University and Professor Jamie Spangler from Johns Hopkins University. Both of their works illustrate the dynamism and potential of young scientists within the field. Dr. Barnes’s contributions have redefined approaches to infectious diseases through advanced structural biology, while Dr. Spangler’s innovative molecular immunoengineering is crafting new avenues for therapeutic protein design, showcasing the future of protein research.
Over the course of the symposium, attendees can expect to engage with the award recipients, gaining insights from their plenary talks while networking with fellow researchers, exhibitors, and sponsors. As the 39th Annual Symposium approaches, anticipation builds around the potential collaborations and revolutionary ideas that will emerge from this gathering, aligning with The Protein Society’s objectives to foster communication and cooperation within the scientific community.
The Protein Society has long been an advocate for the advancement of protein science, providing diverse forums for discussion and dissemination of important research outcomes since its establishment in 1986. Through its flagship journal, Protein Science, and the facilitation of education for early-career scientists, the Society continues to represent a wide array of professionals dedicated to exploring the complexities of proteins and their myriad roles across biological systems.
As we look ahead to the symposium and the insights to be shared by distinguished scientists, it is clear that the field of protein science stands at a pivotal moment, poised to make further strides that will enhance our understanding of biological phenomena, improve research methodologies, and ultimately pave the way for groundbreaking health solutions.
The awards served not only as a celebration of current achievements but also as an inspiration for future generations of researchers continuing to explore the untapped potential that lies within protein science, acknowledging the hard work and dedication required to drive the field forward towards new horizons.
Subject of Research: Advances in Protein Science
Article Title: Celebrating Innovation and Excellence in Protein Research: 2025 Protein Society Awards Announced
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Keywords: Protein Research, Protein Science, Nanobodies, Circadian Biology, Nucleo-Cytoplasmic Transport, Immunoengineering, Protein Design, Basic Research, Clinical Applications, Structural Biology, Scientific Awards, Annual Symposium.
