Distinguished Greek-Australian immunologist and Neos Kosmos contributor Professor Vasso Apostolopoulos was awarded the prestigious Galien Scientific Research Award at a ceremony in Athens on Thursday.
Held at the Megaron Athens Concert Hall, the event celebrated groundbreaking advancements in pharmaceutical science.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis presented the award, commending Professor Apostolopoulos as a luminary in global scientific research.
Australian Ambassador to Greece, Alison Duncan, also attended, praising Apostolopoulos’ contributions:
“It was a privilege to join Prime Minister Mitsotakis in presenting the Prix Galien to Distinguished Professor Vasso Apostolopoulos of RMIT University for her pioneering work in cancer vaccine development and immunotherapy. Her dedication to collaborative medical research and her Greek-Australian heritage make her a true exemplar of excellence.”
A leading figure in immunology, Apostolopoulos has earned global recognition for her work in cancer immunotherapy and chronic disease treatments. The Prix Galien Awards, often dubbed the “Nobel Prizes of pharmaceuticals,” honor transformative contributions to medical science that enhance or save lives. Established in 1970, the awards are celebrated in over 15 countries and remain a pinnacle of achievement in biomedical research.
The ceremony featured remarks from Greek Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis, Prix Galien Greece Chair Jenny Pergialiotou, and Professor Apostolopoulos.
This accolade underscores the significant contributions of the Greek diaspora to global health and the power of cross-cultural collaboration in scientific innovation.