At the 2026 ÖGAI Annual Conference, Prof. Michel Nussenzweig was awarded ÖGAI honorary membership for enabling the ÖGAI to name a new award for emerging female researchers after his mother.
The Ruth Sonntag Nussenzweig Award constitutes a targeted positive action measure aimed at addressing the persistent underrepresentation of women and non-binary scientists in senior and independent leadership positions in immunology. Named in tribute to Prof. Ruth Sonntag Nussenzweig, born 1928 in Vienna, a pioneering leader in immunology and malaria research, the award celebrates her groundbreaking contributions and dedication to advancing global health. By recognizing and supporting emerging female scientists, the prize aims to foster greater gender equity in science and encourage more women to excel in immunology and related fields.
