#Denmark #Copenhagen #Brain Prize #Michelle Monje #Frank Winkler

The Brain Prize 2025: A Celebration of Pioneering Neuroscientists

On May 29, 2025, a distinguished award ceremony took place in Copenhagen, where HM King Frederik of Denmark honored two exceptional neuroscientists, Professor Michelle Monje from the US and Professor Frank Winkler from Germany, with the coveted Brain Prize. This award, widely regarded as the largest and most prestigious recognition in neuroscience, comes with a generous monetary award of EUR 1.3 million and serves to spotlight significant contributions to the field of brain research.

During the ceremony, the King delivered an inspiring speech highlighting the profound impact of Monje and Winkler’s work on brain cancer research. He emphasized how their carefully conducted studies have transformed our understanding of the complexities of brain cancer, which historically posed formidable challenges to both researchers and patients alike. Monje and Winkler have successfully demonstrated that everyday activities within the brain are instrumental in driving the development of brain tumors, paving the way for a revolutionary approach to studying and treating this devastating condition.

The foundational discoveries made by these two scientists have not only influenced the field of neuroscience but have also burgeoned into a novel area of study known as 'Cancer Neuroscience.' This emerging domain presently offers exciting new avenues for potential therapeutic strategies that could prove crucial in combating the most aggressive forms of brain cancer, such as gliomas. These brain tumors are notoriously difficult to treat and stand as the leading cause of brain tumor-related fatalities in both children and adults.

The implications of their research extend beyond the brain, indicating that the interplay between the nervous system and tumors exists throughout the body—a revelation that could change treatment protocols for various cancers. The relevance of their discoveries cannot be overstated; they act as a beacon of hope for developing new treatment methodologies that could eventually lead to successful outcomes for patients grappling with this formidable disease.

The Brain Prize has been presented annually since 2011 by the Lundbeck Foundation, celebrating extraordinary contributions in neuroscience. This year’s ceremony drew in over 360 invited guests, including families of the recipients and esteemed patrons, all gathered to witness this notable event in the scientific community.

Professor Michelle Monje serves as the Milan Gambhir Professor of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology at Stanford Medicine and is recognized as a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator. Meanwhile, Professor Frank Winkler holds the position of Professor of Experimental Neuro-Oncology at Heidelberg University’s Hospital and has made significant strides in understanding disease-driving interactions between the brain and brain tumors.

As a powerful acknowledgment of their invaluable contributions, HM King Frederik expressed admiration for their unwavering dedication and innovative spirit. He poignantly stated, “Your achievements in cancer neuroscience are truly extraordinary. You are an inspiration not only to your peers but to generations of scientists yet to come. Thanks to your tireless efforts, there is hope that one day all types of brain cancer can be cured.”

The award ceremony not only celebrated prestigious accomplishments in cancer research but also reinforced a collective aspiration to push the boundaries of scientific understanding. Monje and Winkler’s work stands as a testament to the pursuit of excellence in neuroscience, with the promise of future breakthroughs illuminating the path toward effective brain cancer treatments.

For further information, including a portrait film about the award winners and their groundbreaking science, please visit www.thebrainprize.org.

As the world continues to combat the challenges posed by brain cancer, the pioneering research of individuals like Professors Monje and Winkler not only enriches the scientific community but also fuels hope for patients and families affected by this disease.