Yale University Faculty Members Earn National Recognition in Health and Medicine

On October 20, 2025, Yale School of Medicine announced that three of its faculty members have been elected to the prestigious National Academy of Medicine (NAM) for 2025. This honor recognizes their remarkable professional achievements and contributions to healthcare and medical research, solidifying their place among the top echelon of academics in these fields.

Outstanding Faculty Achievements

Dr. Martina Brueckner

Dr. Martina Brueckner, a professor of Pediatrics (Cardiology) and Genetics, has been acknowledged for her groundbreaking work uncovering the cellular and molecular mechanisms of left-right asymmetry in vertebrates. This asymmetry is crucial as it leads to the proper positioning and organization of organ systems within the human body. Furthermore, her research has identified genetic causes for approximately 40% of congenital heart defects, showcasing her vital role in addressing significant public health concerns.

Dr. Lieping Chen

Dr. Lieping Chen, who holds the title of United Technologies Corporation Cancer Research Chair, is a professor in Immunobiology, Dermatology, and Internal Medicine (Medical Oncology). He has been recognized for his foundational contributions to our understanding of how cancer cells evade immune detection. Dr. Chen discovered the PD-L1 molecule, a protein expressed on the surface of cancer cells that inhibits immune responses, thereby promoting tumor progression. His research has illuminated how PD-L1 is upregulated in certain cancers, laying the groundwork for crucial immunotherapy approaches that empower patients' immune systems to combat tumors effectively.

Dr. Tamas Horvath

Dr. Tamas Horvath, a professor of Comparative Medicine, Neuroscience, and Obstetrics and Reproductive Sciences, has received recognition for his innovative insights into how the hypothalamus regulates metabolic pathways. His work demonstrates that hypothalamic metabolic circuits influence higher brain functions and impact neurodegeneration. This research is reshaping our understanding of physiology's integration in health and disease, offering new perspectives on metabolic disorders and potential therapeutic targets.

Joining the Ranks of the National Academy of Medicine

With the induction of Brueckner, Chen, and Horvath, Yale School of Medicine now counts approximately 2,500 researchers among its distinguished members of NAM, an organization that annually elects 100 new members—90 from the United States and 10 from other countries. This recognition underscores the impactful research and scholarship produced at Yale, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in biomedical research and medical education.

About Yale School of Medicine

Yale School of Medicine is committed to fostering leaders in medicine and science, cultivating a spirit of inquiry and critical exploration. With over 1,700 physicians providing compassionate care to patients worldwide, Yale stands at the forefront of biomedical research, clinical education, and healthcare innovation. The educational system emphasizes critical thinking and independent research, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow in academic medicine.

This notable recognition of Yale's faculty members not only highlights their personal achievements but also reflects the institution’s dedication to advancing health and medicine, paving the way for future breakthroughs that can improve lives globally.