2016 Ulla and Stig Holmquist prizewinner selected

Kristina Luthman is awarded the prize for her studies of peptide-like compounds, peptidomimetics, which have medicinal properties. Luthman has developed methods of synthesis which enable design of these molecules which has taken both creativity and deep, internationally recognised knowledge of organic chemistry. Her efforts have not only led to new compounds but to new questions being raised in medicinal chemistry. Some examples are allergy-related issues, cancer, diabetes and neurodegeneration.  Luthman is well-established as a medicinal chemist and has a large, interdisciplinary network for collaboration which contributes to the high societal relevance of her research.

Kristina Luthman got her Doctor’s degree at Uppsala University in 1986 and has since the year 2000 built up medicinal chemistry at the University of Gothenburg. Luthman is also recognised as a skilled teacher and was in 2011 awarded the ‘Pedalen’ award, which is the Sahlgrenska Academy Student’s Union’s teaching award.

About the prize:

The Ulla and Stig Holmquist Science Prize in Organic Chemistry is awarded annually to a researcher who has primarily worked in Sweden and conducted ground-breaking research in the field. The prize sum is roughly SEK 2 million. Nominations for the prize have been reviewed by the Vice-Dean for Research of the Faculty of Science and Technology in consultation with the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy and the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine. The nominations have also been reviewed by external scientific experts. The final decision is made by the Vice-Chancellor and the prize will be awarded at the Winter Conferment Ceremony.

Find out more about the Ulla and Stig Holmquist Science Prize in Organic Chemistry.