University of Glasgow Chemist Wins Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists

A University of Glasgow chemist has been named as the recipient of a prestigious international award.

Jesko Köhnke, Professor of Biological Chemistry at the School of Chemistry, is one of the Finalists of the Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists in the UK. A portrait of Professor Jesko Koehnke

The annual awards celebrate the past accomplishments and future potential of the UK’s most innovative scientists and engineers.

Professor Köhnke’s award recognises his work in investigating how life performs the complex chemical reactions leading to the formation of natural products.

He uses biochemistry and structural biology to study and exploit the biosynthesis of these valuable compounds, which could be used to make new molecules.

Those molecules could create novel types of diagnostics, smart materials, and therapies, including materials to evade antibiotic resistance and treat cancer more effectively.

As a Finalist in the Awards, Professor Köhnke will receive a prize of £30,000.
The Awards are supported by the Blavatnik Family Foundation and independently administered by the New York Academy of Sciences.

Professor Köhnke will receive his award at an event in London later this year.

Professor Köhnke said: “I’m honoured that my research has been recognised at the Blavatnik Awards, and thrilled to join the ranks of the very accomplished researchers who have been recognized by the Blavatnik Family Foundation over the years.

“I’m incredibly grateful for all the support I’ve had from mentors and colleagues who have helped deliver these research results, and I’m looking forward to continuing to explore this exciting field of chemistry in the years to come.”