The annual SAMRC Scientific Merit Awards are now accepting submissions, according to the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC).
Individual researchers who have made ground-breaking contributions to good science and health research that will improve South Africans’ lives via published work are qualified candidates.
The presiding SAMRC President may choose to present the awards, which are among the most distinguished in the nation. They consist of a collection of medals, including platinum, gold, silver, bronze, and the unique President’s award.
The awards, according to Professor Glenda Gray, President and CEO of the SAMRC, recognise work that demonstrates cutting-edge methodologies and takes a fresh approach to public health issues with the potential to influence policy and enhance the quality of life for South Africans.
The importance of academic research and innovation in the field of public health, according to Gray, cannot be understated.
She thinks that since COVID-19 emerged, science has led the nation’s response, demonstrating the value of science and public health research in combating infectious disease risks, both present and future.
Gray said, “As we go to the future, science will give the road to construct a system that is responsive to the health needs of our nation, aiming to expand manufacturing capabilities to provide vaccinations, medications, and diagnostics to our continent.
The SAMRC states that scientists who have made remarkable contributions to the area of health are given platinum medals as lifetime achievement awards.
Past honorees have included the late Professors Linda-Gail Bekker, Shabir Madhi, Salim Abdool Karim, and Bongani Mayosi.
Professor Andre Kengne, a specialised doctor with interests in epidemiology, preventive, and chronic non-communicable illnesses, won the platinum prize in the previous instalment.
Meanwhile, gold medals are given to eminent senior scientists who have produced groundbreaking discoveries that have improved human health, particularly that of individuals who live in impoverished nations.
The silver medals, on the other hand, are given to researchers who have made significant scientific contributions to the nation with a focus on capacity building.
Professors Diane Gray, Rabia Johnson, Marlo Möller, and Dr. Nasheeta Peer received this honour in 2021.
Scientists who have made remarkable lifetime contributions to medical research are given President’s honours.
Professors Zena Stein, Carl Lombard, Linda Richter, Anthony Fauci, Hoosen Jerry Coovadia, Paul Van Helden, Lucille Blumberg, Ephraim Mokgokong, Debbie Bradshaw, former SAMRC President Professor Malegapuru William Makgoba, James “Jimmy” Volmink, and Mike Sathekge are just a few of the luminaries who have received this coveted honour.
Furthermore, Professor Koleka Mlisana, the first black microbiologist in the nation with more than 40 years of expertise in the health sciences, was recently recognised with the President’s award.