Gunilla Osswald Recognized as Uppsala University Alumnus of the Year 2025

Celebrating Leadership in Science: Gunilla Osswald's Recognition

In a remarkable achievement for the field of biotechnology, Gunilla Osswald, the CEO of BioArctic AB, has been named Uppsala University’s Alumnus of the Year for 2025. This prestigious accolade is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, showcasing the values of scientific excellence, societal importance, and innovation. Osswald's career exemplifies these qualities, earning her this honor on September 9, 2025.

Gunilla Osswald, a trained pharmacist and Uppsala University alumna, has transformed the landscape of neurodegenerative disease treatment. Under her leadership since 2014, BioArctic has flourished and made significant strides in addressing Alzheimer’s disease, a global health crisis. Osswald’s vision is one of inclusivity and collaboration, fostering a culture that encourages innovation within her organization and with external partners. Her strong sense of purpose resonates well with students and researchers alike, particularly inspiring women in the fields of science and technology.

The motivation behind her award highlights Osswald’s ability to unite scientific integrity with effective leadership and entrepreneurship. It states, “As a business leader, she is visionary and inclusive. She creates a shared sense of purpose, a strong feeling of meaning, and a culture characterized by collaboration.” This perspective captures not just Osswald’s role at BioArctic, but also her impact as a mentor and role model in the academic and research communities.

Osswald’s achievements in the pharmaceutical sector are noteworthy, particularly her contribution to the development of lecanemab, a groundbreaking drug recognized globally for its ability to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Earlier this year, alongside BioArctic’s founders, Lars Lannfelt and Pär Gellerfors, she received the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Prize from Uppsala University, solidifying her reputation as a leader in medical innovation. Lecanemab represents a significant advancement in Alzheimer’s treatment, with collaborative efforts with BioArctic's partner, Eisai, enhancing its global impact.

Upon receiving the award, Gunilla Osswald expressed profound gratitude for her university experience, stating, “Uppsala University has had a profound influence on who I have become as well as on the successes our company has achieved.” Her words reflect the gratitude she feels towards an institution that was instrumental in shaping her professional values and mission.

Osswald’s story is one of resilience and dedication. She emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic health issues through innovative approaches. Her work not only exemplifies scientific achievement but also highlights the necessity for strong leadership in healthcare, especially in pioneering sectors like biotechnology.

The Uppsala University Alumnus of the Year award is presented annually to recognize and celebrate outstanding alumni who have made notable contributions or distinctions worthy of acknowledgment by the university. This year’s selection underscores the university's commitment to promoting initiatives that harness academic knowledge for societal betterment.

Looking ahead, Gunilla Osswald continues to lead BioArctic with a vision for sustainable health solutions, proving that the integration of science and leadership can drive innovation. Her journey inspires future generations of scientists and entrepreneurs, fueling a passion for research and collaboration in solving the world’s most pressing health challenges. As she forges ahead, she reaffirms her commitment to improve patient outcomes through science, a cause that not only benefits individuals but society as a whole.

In conclusion, Gunilla Osswald's recognition as Alumnus of the Year reflects her unwavering dedication to improving healthcare through innovative biopharmaceuticals. Her visionary leadership serves as an inspiration to many, making significant impacts in both science and society, thus embodying the core values of Uppsala University.