Leeuwenhoek Medal and Lecture

This medal recognises excellence in the field of microbiology, bacteriology, virology, mycology and parasitology, and microscopy

The award

The Leeuwenhoek Medal and Lecture. It was originally established to recognise excellence in the field of microbiology but now also includes excellence in bacteriology, virology, mycology and parasitology, and microscopy. The lectureship was named after the Dutch microscopist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek FRS, often referred to as the ‘Father of Microbiology’, and is supported by a bequest from George Gabb. Originally it was held annually, and from 2006 to 2018 it was awarded triennially, but it is now awarded biennially. The lecture was first given in 1950. The medal is of bronze, is awarded biennially and is accompanied by a gift of £2,000.

Eligibility

The Leeuwenhoek medal and lecture is open to UK/Commonwealth/Republic of Ireland citizens or those who have been residents for three or more years. There are no restrictions on career stage and nominations will remain valid and shall be considered by the award selection committee throughout three nomination cycles.       

Nominations

Nominations for this award will open in November 2024.

Winner 2024

  • Professor Joanne P Webster FMedSci

    Professor Joanne P Webster FMedSci

    The Leeuwenhoek Medal and Lecture 2024 is awarded to Professor Joanne P Webster FMedSci for her achievements in advancing control of disease in humans and animals caused by parasites in Asia and Africa.
  • Past winners

    • Joanne P Webster
      Awarded in 2023

      Professor Joanne P Webster FMedSci

      For her achievements in advancing control of disease in humans and animals caused by parasites in Asia and Africa.
    • Sjors Scheres
      Awarded in 2021

      Dr Sjors Scheres FRS

      For ground-breaking contributions and innovations in image analysis and reconstruction methods in electron cryo-microscopy, enabling the structure determination of complex macromolecules of fundamental biological and medical importance to atomic resolution.
    • blank avatar
      Awarded in 2019

      Geoffrey Smith

      Delivered lecture: 'Poxvirus research after smallpox eradication: new findings with an old vaccine'.
    • Sarah Cleaveland
      Awarded in 2017

      Sarah Cleaveland

      Delivered lecture: 'Can we make rabies history? Realising the value of research for the global elimination of rabies'.