2012 Nobel Prizes: Great news for the UK and for France on science and innovation
Researchers from both countries have won Nobel prizes. Watch our video interview with the Embassy Science advisor.
Nobel medal
These last two days have seen excellent news for the UK and for France on science and innovation. Serge Haroche from the College de France has been awarded the Nobel Physics Prize, Sir John Gurdon at Cambridge University and Shinya Yamanaka won the Nobel Prize for Medicine and Physiology yesterday.
Sir John’s research is truly groundbreaking. The ability to change adult cells to stem cells completely changed the way we think about this area of science. 40 years since this discovery, the potential for this research to positively impact human health is clear. Regenerative medicine – which developed as a result of Sir John’s research – has the potential to have a huge impact on the lives of patients suffering from conditions such as Parkinson’s and diabetes.
The Nobel Prize has a wonderful ability to inspire people to take up science careers and to use research to profoundly and positively change people’s lives. I hope these latest Nobel prizes help to continue that effect.
Here at the Embassy, the Science and Innovation Team promotes bilateral collaboration between the UK and France on science and innovation. The UK is one of the best places in the world to carry out research and this latest Nobel Prize is an excellent affirmation of that.
Matthew Houlihan Regional Manager Europe, West UK Science & Innovation Network