NEWS Professor Sun Nyunt Wai at the Department of Molecular Biology has been awarded the Bo and Barbro Hammarström Prize at Umeå University for 2026. She receives the award for her groundbreaking and long-term impactful contributions to medical microbiology and immunology.
Sun Nyunt Wai, Professor of Medical Microbial Pathogenesis.
ImageMattias PetterssonSun Nyunt Wai’s research focuses on the properties of pathogenic bacteria. In its citation, the prize committee states:
"Her pioneering work on the role of bacterial membrane vesicles in pathogenesis, immune activation and microbial interactions has shaped an entire field of research. Through publications in leading journals, strong research funding and highly valued teaching, she has clearly strengthened the profile of Umeå University. Her scientific breakthroughs and academic leadership exemplify the excellence this prize seeks to recognise."
The Bo and Barbro Hammarström Prize was established at Umeå University in 2022 following a donation from Bo Hammarström. The prize is awarded to an active researcher or teacher at Umeå University who has made outstanding contributions to the promotion of scientific research and development in one of the fields of chemistry, cell and molecular biology, microbiology or immunology.
The prize of SEK 100,000 will be awarded at the university’s annual celebration over a five-year period – first awarded in 2023 and last in 2027.