VinFuture Prize 2025 Honors Groundbreaking Advances in Cancer Genetics and Vaccine Development

The VinFuture Prize 2025 ceremony, held on December 5-6 and broadcast live on VTV1, celebrated remarkable scientific contributions that have advanced public health and food security globally. The event awarded a total of $5 million recognizing innovative research in genetics, vaccine development, microbial ecology, and crop science.

The coveted $3 million main prize was presented to Dr. Douglas R. Lowy, Dr. John T. Schiller, Dr. Aimée R. Kreimer, and Professor Maura L. Gillison from the United States for their pioneering development of the HPV vaccine. Their work has played a critical role in substantially reducing cervical cancer incidence worldwide, especially in developing countries. This milestone achievement underscores the power of cross-border collaboration to address global health challenges.

Additionally, Professor Mary-Claire King received a special $500,000 prize recognizing her discovery of the BRCA1 gene, which revolutionized cancer genetics by linking it to inherited risks for breast and ovarian cancer. King shared insights with young Vietnamese students during the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of resilience and embracing failure in scientific research. "The sooner you fail, the faster you can develop and succeed," she stated, encouraging persistence despite skepticism faced during her career.

Two other special prizes of $500,000 each honored Professor María Esperanza Martínez-Romero for advances in microbial ecology and five researchers for innovations in hybrid crops capable of self-reproduction, enhancing global food security.

Gathering 1,705 nominations from nearly 110 countries, the VinFuture Prize continues to serve as a prestigious platform connecting the global scientific community with Vietnam's research landscape. Professor Richard Friend stressed the collective spirit behind the awards, highlighting the practical benefits of these advances for health and agriculture worldwide. The nomination period for the 2026 Prize opens on January 9, 2026.