Each year the Royal Society, the UK's independent scientific academy, presents a series of prestigious medals and awards to recognise those who have made outstanding contributions to science for the benefit of humanity.
The Ferrier Medal and Lecture
Professor Gillian Bates (UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology), already a Fellow of the Royal Society, was awarded this year’s Ferrier Medal and Lecture by the Royal Society. Created in memory of the pioneering Scottish neurologist and psychologist David Ferrier FRS, the Medal is given on a subject related to the advancement of natural knowledge on the structure and function of the nervous system.
Professor Bates was recognised for her outstanding work in understanding the molecular basis of Huntington’s disease, a devastating inherited neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and cognition and is ultimately fatal.
Since she began her work on Huntington’s disease in 1987, Professor Bates has consistently produced highly impactful findings which have moulded the course of this field.
Upon learning of her award, Professor Bates said: “I have been fortunate to be able to devote my career to understanding the mechanistic basis of such a devastating disorder as Huntington’s disease.
“Over the years, I have had the privilege to work with many inspiring and brilliant colleagues. I am delighted and truly honoured to have been awarded the Ferrier Medal by the Royal Society.”
Congratulating this year’s award winners, Sir Adrian Smith, President of the Royal Society said, “The scope of scientific knowledge and experience in this year’s line-up is amazing. These outstanding researchers, individuals and teams have contributed to our collective scientific endeavour and helped further our understanding of the world around us.
“I am proud to celebrate outstanding science and offer my congratulations to all the 2024 recipients of the Royal Society’s Medals and Awards.”