- The XXVIII Catalonia International Prize recognizes trio of internationally acclaimed experts in oncology: José Baselga, Manel Esteller, and Joan Massagué
- This year’s award celebrates the outstanding contributions of José Baselga, Manel Esteller, and Joan Massagué in advancing cancer research and rendering precision oncology more precise for an increasing number of patients across borders
Awarded by the President of the Generalitat of Catalonia, Carles Puigdemont, the 2016 Prize recognizes groundbreaking advances in cancer science and medicine led by these three truly inspirational figures who were selected from among 138 candidates spanning 57 countries for their “seminal research against cancer that has consequently accelerated precision medicine in oncology through their breakthrough discoveries in cancer genomics, immuno-oncology, and targeted therapies against cancer”.
José Baselga, Physician-in-Chief at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, Past President of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), President of VHIO’s Scientific Committee as well as the FERO Foundation – both of which he founded in 1996 and 2001 repsectively, is undoubtedly one of the world’s most recognized thought leaders in oncology thanks to his inspired vision and tireless dedication aimed at rapidly advancing personalized anti-cancer therapies and care for an increasing number of patients across the globe.
“On behalf of all of us at VHIO, I would like to congratulate José Baselga for this prestigious recognition. As an eminent, international leader in oncology, José has advanced precision cancer science and medicine for the benefit of numerous patients at home, throughout Europe and at international level”, observes Josep Tabernero, Director of VHIO.
“I also take this opportunity to acknowledge the important contributions of both Joan Massagué and Manel Esteller, deserved co-recipients of this prize, which have also led to essential insights into cancer progression, metastatic spread, and resistance to current therapies”, he concludes.
This most prestigious prize was created in 1989 to recognize exceptional contribution to society through science, culture, and the humanities. 2016 marks the very first year to award Catalan-born citizens.
Consisting of the sum of €80.000 and the sculpture La clau i la lletra by Antoni Tàpies, the Catalonia International Prize will be presented during a celebratory ceremony on 25 October 2016 at the Palau de la Generalitat.
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