Giessen, September 18, 2025 – The prestigious Broermann Medical Innovation Award (BMIA) has honored two pioneering scientists for their groundbreaking research in cancer therapy. Dr. Carl June from the University of Pennsylvania and Dr. Michel Sadelain from Columbia University were recognized for their innovative work in using CAR-T cells to fight cancer. The award, presented for the first time this year, comes with a prize of one million euros, making it one of the most highly endowed medical awards in the world.
The revolutionary approach of CAR-T cell therapy involves genetically modifying T-cells to identify and destroy cancer cells. This breakthrough technique has shown remarkable success rates in treating cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Dr. June and Dr. Sadelain have been at the forefront of this research, using synthetic receptors known as chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to make T-cells more effective against cancer.
In a statement, Dr. June expressed his gratitude for being recognized by the BMIA and acknowledged the transformative potential of CAR-T cell therapy for cancer patients worldwide. Dr. Sadelain echoed this sentiment, stating that the award is a recognition of the revolutionary power of CAR-T cell therapy and the potential it holds to change the lives of patients with cancer.
The Broermann Medical Innovation Award is presented by a renowned jury consisting of nine senior members of distinguished institutes, including the President of the Helmholtz Association and the Vice President of the German Research Foundation. The laureates are selected through a rigorous multi-stage process, ensuring the highest scientific quality and independence.
Dr. Carl June, born in Denver, USA, in 1953, established the Center for Cellular Immunotherapies (CCI) at the University of Pennsylvania in 1999 and is currently the Richard W. Vague Professor in Immunotherapy. Dr. Michel Sadelain, born in Paris, France, in 1960, is the Director of the Columbia Initiative in Cell Engineering and Therapy (CICET) center in New York, where he leads innovative cell therapy research. Both scientists have received numerous scientific prizes for their pioneering contributions to cancer therapy.
The Broermann Medical Innovation Award was established in 2024 by Dr. Bernard große Broermann, founder of the Asklepios Kliniken Group. The award carries forward his vision of creating an innovative healthcare company that delivers real value to people. The prize is presented in a formal ceremony at the Hessian State Chancellery in Wiesbaden by the current Hessian Prime Minister, Boris Rhein.
For more information, please contact the Broermann Medical Innovation Award at contact@broermann-award.org or visit their website at www.broermann-award.org.
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