This highly coveted biennial award has been given to Professor Sir Stephen O’Rahilly (Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science), for his outstanding research into the link between obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
The Hamm Prize recognises and encourages lasting achievements in diabetes research focused on progress toward a cure. and is awarded to an individual who has either demonstrated lifelong contributions to the field, or realized a singular advance, especially one that promotes curative potential. The honour includes a $250,000 award — the largest of its kind in the world.
On hearing the news, Sir Stephen said:
The Harold Hamm Prize is one of the most prestigious and distinguished awards a diabetes researcher can receive. Its previous recipients are all giants in our field and it is a great honour to join their number. Research is clearly a team effort and I joyfully accept this prize on behalf of all the wonderful people with whom I have worked for over four decades in diabetes research, as we have strived to better understand the biology of this disorder and turn that knowledge into improved care for patients.
Director of the Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, Jed Friedman added:
Obesity is caused by genetics in part, and O’Rahilly has discovered some of these key genes that lead to actually understanding why obesity happens. It’s not just a disease of gluttony anymore, it’s a disease of genetics. His contributions to the field of diabetes have been immense and we are really proud to have him as our prize winner.