Prize laureates
In 2026, the laureates are Dr Nancy Yuk-yu Ip (China), Professor Carlos Martín Montañés (Spain) and Professor Adnane Remmal (Morocco). Their innovative research has led to major breakthroughs in addressing some of the world’s most pressing health challenges, helping to strengthen diagnostic, prevention and treatment capacities, while opening new perspectives for improving the health and well-being of populations.
Dr Nancy Yuk-yu Ip, President of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, is a world-renowned neuroscientist recognized for her outstanding contributions to neuroscience, which have advanced understanding of brain function and Alzheimer’s disease. Her research has led to the discovery of new biomarkers, the identification of genetic risk factors and the development of innovative blood tests enabling earlier diagnosis and improved monitoring of the disease. Her pioneering work in gene therapy also opening new avenues for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Recognized for his exceptional scientific leadership in the life sciences, Professor Carlos Martín Montañés, Professor at the University of Zaragoza, is honoured for his major contribution to the clinical development of the first live attenuated tuberculosis vaccine derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. His research has reached Phase III clinical evaluation, representing a historic advance aligned with the objectives of the WHO’s global End TB Strategy. Through his sustained commitment to strengthening international scientific capacity and promoting global health equity, he is paving the way for a major breakthrough in tuberculosis prevention, particularly in Africa, and contributing to global efforts to eradicate the disease.
Professor Adnane Remmal, of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University of Fez, is recognized for his pioneering work in combating antimicrobial resistance, one of the greatest public health challenges of our time. His innovative research led to the development of OLIPEN®, an antibiotic combined with an essential oil component, approved for clinical use and already offering new therapeutic prospects to many patients in Morocco facing multidrug-resistant infections. Committed to promoting an integrated approach to human and animal health, he has also developed natural alternatives to antibiotics for livestock farming, helping to reduce their use and support safer and more sustainable food production. Widely adopted, his innovations represent a major step forward in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance and demonstrate the potential of scientific research to provide concrete solutions to global health challenges.
The three laureates will share a prize amount of USD 300,000 and will each receive an “Integración Tribal” statuette by Equatorial Guinean artist Leandro Mbomio Nsue during the award ceremony, which will take place on 6 November 2026 at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France.
