From time to time, individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program are singled out to receive special recognition with the “Director’s Award.” Honorees are selected based on their dedication to the mission of cultivating the next generation of scientists and their selfless service to the Scholars Program.
The 2024 Director’s Award was presented to Dr. Michael Lenardo.
Dr. Lenardo is not only an accomplished immunologist, having led his group to discover four distinct diseases and helped advance diagnostics and therapies for many more, but he is also a world-recognized international biomedical research leader. A AAAS Fellow, a Member of the National Academy of Science and the National Academy of Medicine, a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences of Great Britain, and an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (O.B.E.) conferred by Queen Elizabeth II, he remains a trailblazer in immunology and biomedical research, as well as an incredible mentor and supporter of trainees at the NIH and collaborating universities.
Dr. Lenardo co-founded the NIH-Oxford Cambridge Scholars Program, the NIH-UPenn Immunology Program, the NIH-Marshall Scholars, the NIH-Rhodes Scholars, the National M.D./Ph.D. Partnership Program, and the NIH-Institut Pasteur Infectious Disease and Immunology Program. He was also instrumental in catalyzing the creation of the International Biomedical Research Alliance and remains an advisor, ally, and advocate for our organization, a role we hope he continues for many years to come.
Additionally, Dr. Lenardo has been a dedicated mentor and friend to many in the Program. His infectious energy and spirit have inspired countless students, including those who joined the top PhD program in the world due to his influence. Dr. Lenardo will soon begin his new role as Chief Scientific Officer at Calico Labs.
Congratulations to Dr. Michael Lenardo on this well-deserved honor!